- Home occupation permit required:
- Varies
- Details:
- Lee County local zoning ordinances may regulate home-based business activities (parking, signage, customer traffic). Illinois state cottage food law preempts local restrictions that are inconsistent with state law, but operators should verify home occupation permit requirements with the county zoning/planning office or municipality of residence.
- Home kitchen:
- Must register with local health department (Lee County Health Department or adjacent county health dept if none) for up to $50/year. Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM-level) certification required for all persons who prepare or package food. Inspection is complaint-based only. Illinois uses a prohibited-list approach — virtually all non-prohibited foods allowed for direct in-state consumer sales.
Last verified 2026-05-06. Not legal advice.
