A One-Stop Shop Business Licensing and Permitting Portal

Alderman Martin's recently introduced Order will be a game-changer for small businesses

July 30, 2026  Elliot Richardson

Alderman Matt Martin has taken compelling action to improve the process by which small businesses can operate in Chicago. Recognizing the crucial role small businesses play in our economy and the numerous challenges they are facing at this moment, Alderman Martin has proposed an Order that, if adopted by City Council, will direct the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) to formulate an implementation plan for a “One-Stop Shop Business Licensing and Permitting Portal” through which small businesses in Chicago can:
  1. apply for or renew all licenses or permits,
  2. request inspections,
  3. coordinate directly with City Department liaisons, and
  4. find personalized information, including the status of their permit or license application, the status of their inspection request, and inspection requirements.

You can read the full order here. We encourage small business owners and advocates to reach out to their Alder and encourage them to support and adopt this order.