After persistent support from the SBAC to legalize sandwich signs, in June 2021, Chicago Alderman voted to adopt a new policy on sandwich signs, which will go into effect NEXT WEEK. On March 1, 2022, Chicago small businesses can officially use “A-frame” or sandwich signs on the sidewalk to drive foot traffic into their stores. This win will both help local businesses attract customers and add to the overall vibrancy of our neighborhoods. Click here to learn more about permit applications and costs.
For 7 years, the SBAC and a robust coalition of business and community organizations had been fighting to reduce the time it takes for small businesses to obtain a sign or other public way use permit. And thanks to the SBAC’s tenacity, the City of Chicago answered that call. On July 21, 2021, the SBAC was able to deliver a big win to the small business community with the Chicago City Council’s decision to eliminate full city council approval for public way use permits.
SBAC Empower’s 2023 Impact Report
Our Impact (Report) SBAC Empower had an incredible year in 2022. We are proud to report our impact in the SBAC Empower 2023 Impact Report. This report is a detailed collection of data from 2019 – 2022 carefully articulated to show the impact we are making in communities throughout Chicagoland. Check out some snippets below…
Ordinance Filed to Reduce Special Use Zoning Fees For Small Businesses
The Small Business Advocacy Council has been working with a strong coalition on efforts to revitalize neighborhood business districts in Chicago. As part of these efforts, we are advocating to reduce fees for small businesses that want to open in Chicago. We are thrilled to report that we have worked with Alderman David Moore to…
Coalition Engagement Sparks New Chicago Zoning Guide
Navigating the zoning rules in Chicago just became easier. The newly released Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) Chicago Business Zoning Guide will help small businesses and property owners more easily navigate the zoning process in Chicago. This was crucial as chambers of commerce and small business advocates advised that clear,…
