Resources for Chicago bars, restaurants, and music venues

The Illinois Liquor Control Commission is responsible for issuing the State liquor licenses, administering the BASSET responsible server certifications, and enforcing laws related to the sales of alcohol in Illinois.

* Look up or renew your State liquor license

* Verify staff responsible server certifications

* Check State delinquency list for unpaid wine & spirits invoices

BACP is the City of Chicago department that bars, restaurants, and music venues will interact with most.  BACP is responsible for business and liquor license applications and renewals, enforcing workplace ordinances including minimum wage and Paid Sick Leave and issuing permits for signs and sidewalk cafes on the public way.

* BACP Business License information

* BACP Worplace ordinance information

* BACP public way permits information including signs and sidewalk cafe permits

Liquor licensing in Chicago is complex and HBAC strongly urges anyone considering opening or expanding a liquor licensed business to consult with a hospitality experienced legal professional. We provide upon request a list of attorneys recognized by the HBAC and at least three current members for providing experienced legal advice. Please email us for a copy of this list. 

We are pleased to partner with MYVLP to offer affordable and effective online training and certification for hospitality staff in responsible alcohol service and safe food handling practices. Certification in both are required by local and state ordinance. The Hospitality Association receives a modest referral fee from each course purchase to underwrite our responsible service education.