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Outdoor Patio Liquor License: Chicago restaurant guide

Chicago BACP

What it is

A secondary liquor license to serve alcohol on a privately owned outdoor area next to a COP or Tavern premises.

When a restaurant needs it

Serving alcohol on a private patio, yard or rooftop (not the public sidewalk or curb lane).

How to apply

Apply through BACP along with or after your COP/Tavern license; the patio must pass zoning (rooftop patios are a special use in B3/C districts).

Documents you’ll need

Fee
$1,760 + $40 publication fee (2-year license)
Processing time
Runs with the liquor license process
Renewal
Every 2 years
Who files
The liquor licensee files.

Good to know

Patios must close by 11 p.m. Sunday–Thursday and midnight Friday–Saturday, live or recorded music is not allowed, and a Late Hour license does not extend patio hours.

Official source

BACP — classes of liquor licenses

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