City Clerk - Permits, Licenses and Applications Overview

This page has information on several permits, licenses and applications. Most forms are available to download/print from the Info Resources section of our website.  Click here to go there now.

Block Party Applications

Block Party requests are approved at City Council meetings. Applications must be completed and returned to the City Clerk’s Office at least three weeks in advance of event. Applications are available online. There is no fee for a permit.

Business Licenses

Business licenses are required for the maintenance and operation of any business or establishment, including home-based businesses. A yearly renewal fee is required. The license year begins on January 1 and ends on December 31. A four-page application is available online. For new businesses, applications must be completed and returned to the City Clerk’s Office at least three weeks in advance of opening. A fee is required to accompany the business license application.

The first step for licensing your business is to contact the Building and Zoning Department (708)354-1860 to determine if it is an allowable use within the Zoning District.

Business Registrations

Registrations are required of each business operating within the City, except those licensed and regulated by this Code, in order to make available to the police and other City Agencies a current list of all such businesses, and to charge a reasonable fee for enforcement of the Code. A yearly renewal fee is required. The registration year begins on January 1 and ends on December 31. A four-page application is available online. For new registrations, applications must be completed and returned to the City Clerk’s Office at least three weeks in advance of opening. A fee is required to accompany the registration application.

Garage Sale Permit Applications

The City of Countryside requires that permits be obtained for residential garage/estate sales. Applications are available online. Permits are issued through the City Clerk’s Office.

Application for Home Occupation Permit

If an individual wishes to operate a business out of the home, the first step is to complete an application, returned with a $10.00 non-refundable fee, along with a completed general business license application. Applications must be completed and returned to the City Clerk’s Office at least three weeks in advance of opening. A fee is required to accompany the business license application.

Application for Special Event License

Use this form when your event meets the following criteria:

1. Alcoholic liquor, including beer and wine, will be sold or given away.
2. The event is to be held on public property; or
3. The event is to be held on private property but is open to the general public.
4. Food will be served.

This form is to be used as an alternative to obtaining both a Class C liquor license and a food service’s license, since this license application permits both the sale and giving away of alcoholic beverages and food, and can be applied for by either a sponsor of the event or one of the food or beverage providers.

Real Estate Transfer Fee

The City requires a $50.00 Real Estate Transfer Fee upon the transferring of title or beneficial interest in real estate property located within the City, due prior to the recording in the Office of the Cook County Recorder of Deeds. The fee is paid by the purchase of a transfer stamp issued by the City Clerk’s Office after the Countryside Water Department, and either the La Grange Highlands Sanitary District, South Lyons Sanitary District or Metropolitan Water Reclamation District, have issued a receipt indicating that all current water and sanitary sewer charges are paid in full, as well as a statement issued from the City Clerk’s Office stating there are no other unpaid City charges against the real estate. Cash or cashier’s checks are acceptable only from the seller or buyer. Attorney or real estate brokers personal checks are also acceptable. No personal checks.  Applications are available online.

Special Use Applications

This form is used to apply for an outdoor sale, entertainment, craft or amusement show. Because this form has many uses, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (708)354-7270 for specific information. Applications must be completed and returned to the City Clerk’s Office at least three weeks in advance of an event. If a fee is required, it must accompany the form. Applications are available online.

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