June 24, 2025

Chicago’s small and local businesses drive the city’s economy, foster economic development, create jobs, and support local communities. This blog highlights two proposed ordinances that will impact the small business community.

There is a recently filed ordinance that will require all licensed businesses to maintain functioning surveillance cameras positioned to record all entrance and egress doorways used by the general public and all parking areas of the licensed premises accessible to the public. We understand these cameras can improve public safety, but are concerned about the costs of installing and maintaining these cameras for small businesses. The SBAC will be engaging with alderpersons and stakeholders in an effort to strike the right balance between improving public safety and ensuring local businesses are not hurt by increased costs. You can find the Proposed Camera Ordinance Here.

Another pending ordinance will impact how businesses can display window signs. There seems to be a significant degree of misinformation about this ordinance. Once again, we believe policymakers can strike the right balance between improving public safety, maintaining the integrity of local communities, and ensuring small businesses are not impacted by unintended consequences. You can find the Proposed Sign Ordinance Here.

Please reach out to us for more information about these ordinances and if they will impact you, and how to get involved. You can reach us at info@sbacil.org.