It’s time to apply for your Sidewalk permit! Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection – Sidewalk Signs Now Allowed for Businesses that Obtain a Permit

Effective 3/1/22, sidewalk signs (e.g., A-frame, T-frame, or other temporary self-supporting type signs, placed on the public way) are allowed in the City of Chicago by obtaining the proper City permit. Street-front-businesses will now be able to use sidewalk signs to advertise their business safely and effectively from the sidewalk. The advertisement of services with sidewalk signs helps businesses draw in prospective customers from the street, providing an important boost to revenue from foot traffic. A business will be allowed one sign per street address and an approved application will be provided a decal to display on a sidewalk sign. The signs must be no larger than 6 square feet in area per face and no greater than 4 feet in height. The signs can only contain information for goods and services provided on the premises and must display a permit decal issued by the City. A permit application must include a plan or sketch of the proposed sidewalk sign with the exact dimensions and language. Proof of commercial general liability insurance will also be required. A sidewalk sign permit will be valid for 5 years from the date of issuance and the permit fee will be $100 per year. The sidewalk sign cannot interfere with the flow of pedestrians, access to building entrances, pedestrian and traffic safety, or the aesthetic quality of the surrounding area. A sidewalk sign can only be displayed during the hours the business is open to the public and must be removed from the sidewalk when the business has closed for the day. The Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) hosted an informational webinar that is available for viewing at YouTube.com/chicagobacp. For more information please visit www.chicago.gov/bacp.