Permit guides › Chicago › CHI-TR-03

Liquor License — Tavern: Chicago restaurant guide

Chicago BACP — Local Liquor Control Commission

What it is

For bars, lounges and pubs where selling alcohol is the main business.

When a restaurant needs it

When alcohol, not food, is your primary business.

How to apply

Same process as the COP license; zoning must allow a tavern (permitted in C districts, special use in B3, not allowed in B1/B2).

Documents you’ll need

Fee
$4,400 + $40 publication fee (2-year license)
Processing time
As early as 36 days from payment; often longer
Renewal
Every 2 years
Who files
The applicant entity files; attorneys and expediters commonly assist.

Good to know

Ward moratoriums can block new tavern licenses, and in some districts no new tavern may open within 400 feet of an existing one. Patrons must be 21+, and minors may enter only with a parent or guardian.

Official source

BACP — classes of liquor licenses · BACP — liquor restrictions & moratoriums

Get your personalized Chicago permit plan

Answer a few questions about your space and get every permit in order, with a timeline, a cost range, walkthroughs, and every application filled in for you to sign with Open.

Build my free plan

Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.