City of Lake Forest, IL

The City of Lake Forest does not require a business license.  However, the State of Illinois and Lake County, Illinois have requirements for businesses, please check with those agencies for your business requirements.

The City of Lake Forest does, however, require a Certificate of Zoning Compliance be issued to any new business in Lake Forest.  The Zoning Compliance application can be submitted to the Community Development Department.  If your new business requires any remodeling work in the space or new signage for the space, a permit may also be required.  Contact the Community Development Department to discuss your project and the permits that may be required.