Whether you’re starting a new business or relocating your business to the Village of Lake in the Hills, you need to contact the Community Development Department. The process for establishing a business in the Village depends on whether your business will be operated from your home or from a commercial location.

Are you planning to run your business out of your home?
If so, you need to confirm that your business complies with the Home Occupation Regulations of the Zoning Ordinance. If your use does comply, then fill out a Business & Vending Registration and Notification Form and return it to the Finance Department along with the $10 initial registration fee. Once approved you will receive a Business License from the Finance Department.

Are you planning to lease, buy, or construct a building for your business? If so, there are specific steps to take to ensure that your business is in compliance with Village Code.

1. Determine if the location you’ve chosen is zoned for the type of business or use(s) you’ve planned. Find the zoning of the property on the Village Zoning Map, and look up the use(s) on the Permitted and Conditional Use Chart of our Zoning Ordinance. If you need assistance, contact the Community Development Department at 847-960-7440 to discuss zoning issues and processes.

2. Determine if your business falls under the requirements for a food business or a business that sells alcohol:

   • If you are planning a food business, contact the McHenry County Health Department for its requirements before you proceed. Community Development requires County approval before approving a Building Permit or Certificate of Occupancy for a food business.

   • If your business will be selling alcohol, you should review Chapter 33 “Liquor Control and Licensing” of the Municipal Code and then submit a Liquor License Application, along with all required attachments and the $500.00 Application Fee to the Administration Department. If you have any questions regarding Liquor Licensing, please contact the Administration Department at 847-960-7410.

3. Determine if you need to make building improvements. If so, submit a Building Permit Application with architectural plans showing construction, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems to the Community Development Department for review. Please note that all contractors must be licensed to do work in the Village. As part of our review, we will ask for fire district inspection and approval. If approved, a Building Permit will be issued noting necessary inspections, including a final inspection.

4. Determine if you want to hang a sign for your business. If so, you need to submit a separate Building Permit Application and plans for your sign that are in compliance with Village sign regulations.

Once you’ve followed these steps and completed any necessary building improvements, you can submit a Commercial Occupancy Application and Business & Vending Registration and Notification Form to the Village Finance Department. Community Development will then inspect the building to ensure that it complies with our building codes and is ready for occupancy. If approved, we will issue a Certificate of Occupancy and Business License so that you can open your doors for business.