How to Address Parking Requirements When Opening a Business in Chicago
For business owners in Chicago, one of the most challenging aspects of establishing or expanding operations isn’t always finding customers or securing financing—it’s navigating the city’s complex parking requirements. These zoning regulations, which dictate the minimum number of parking spaces businesses must provide, can create significant hurdles for entrepreneurs, particularly in densely developed areas where […]
Overcoming Zoning Barriers When Developing Group Homes in Chicagoland
Group homes play a vital role in Chicagoland’s housing landscape by providing supportive living environments for people with developmental disabilities, individuals with serious mental illness, older adults, and youth who cannot live with their families. These homes offer a crucial community-based alternative to large state institutions, reflecting the ongoing national shift toward deinstitutionalization and more […]
How to Get a Special Use Permit for Your Illinois Property
In Illinois, land use and zoning regulations exist to ensure that properties are used in ways compatible with their surroundings. However, under some circumstances, local regulations recognize the need for a case-by-case determination of whether a certain use in a particular zoning district should be permitted. Under such circumstances, a Special Use Permit (SUP)—also known […]
Handling Public Opposition to Your Business’s Zoning Changes in Chicago
The Chicago Zoning Ordinance establishes strict regulations about how property can be used, and making changes typically requires approval from both the local community and city officials. Among the most significant hurdles business owners face is public opposition—but with the right approach, you can effectively address community concerns while advancing your business goals. Public Opposition […]
5 Commercial Leasing Nightmares and How to Avoid Them – A Landlord-Tenant Guide
Navigating the complexities of commercial real estate leasing can transform your business dream into a nightmare if you’re not careful. As experienced attorneys who have seen countless tenants struggle with problematic lease agreements, we’ve compiled the five most common and financially devastating commercial lease pitfalls—and how to avoid them before signing on the dotted line. […]
Zoning Basics: What Chicago Business Owners Need to Know in 2025
If you’re planning to start or expand a business in Chicago, understanding the city’s zoning laws is not just helpful—it’s essential for your success. Chicago’s zoning ordinance determines where you can operate, what types of businesses are permitted in specific areas, and what restrictions apply to your property. Getting familiar with these regulations early in […]