In Illinois, businesses with a standard liquor license must close by 2 am (3 am on Sunday). Chicago businesses can apply for a Late Hour Liquor License to extend this time. This license lets them stay open until 4 am (or 5 am on Sunday), nearly allowing alcohol sales around the clock, with a legal opening time of 7 am (11 am on Sunday).
Regulations for Late Hour Liquor Licensing
To apply, businesses must meet specific criteria and follow the application process outlined by city ordinances. The Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection requires businesses to hold an Incidental-Consumption on Premises or Tavern liquor license.
If the business is within 500 feet of residences with 50 or more legal voters, the applicant must notify these residents by certified mail and obtain their consent. The applicant must submit signatures and an affidavit.
Applicants must also submit a Late Hour Exterior Safety Plan, detailing noise reduction, crime prevention, and traffic management. The plan must include security measures, surveillance cameras, exterior lighting, and trained personnel. The business must post a notice of the application.
If nearby residents do not consent or if any steps are missed, the city may deny the license. Legal voters within 500 feet can petition for suspension or revocation. Failure to comply can lead to denial, and residents can request suspension or revocation.
How Can 1818 Help?
Given the process’s complexity, businesses benefit from hiring the right legal representation. Call us at (312) 779-1818 or fill out our online contact form to get help obtaining and maintaining the necessary licenses for your business.
