The City of Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) both inspects businesses independently and investigates consumer complaints regarding businesses. Businesses primarily run afoul of the BACP by failing to obtain a business license or for neglecting to properly display it. In addition, the BACP issues tickets for deceptive business practices, and overweight vehicles.
The BACP initiates cases by issuing an Administrative Notice of Ordinance Violation (ANOV) for violating one or more of the BACP ordinances under the Chicago Municipal Code. These cases are heard by the City of Chicago Environmental Safety & Consumer Affairs Hearings Division at 400 West Superior Street, Chicago, Illinois.
At a business code violation hearing, an attorney for the City reads aloud the ANOV in court. Based on the ANOV alone, the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) determines whether or not the City has met its burden of establishing a prima facie case. If the City meets its burden, the ticket recipient is given an opportunity to explain and defend his or her case. At that point, the ALJ determines whether the ticket recipient is liable and the ensuing consequences.
Approaching a Business Code violation hearing with an attorney at your side is advantageous. An attorney will help you prepare your evidence before the trial and determine which facts will be most helpful in presenting your case. An attorney, familiar with administrative hearings, will ensure your case is presented in the most favorable light. In addition, an attorney will help you avoid common pitfalls inherent in a detail-driven legal system. Aaron Fox Law is committed to these principles to present the strongest defense for your case.
If you have a Chicago Municipal Code violation, and want to discuss your case or how we can be of service to you, contact Aaron Fox Law now for professional, high-caliber, legal expertise: email afox@aaronfoxlaw.com, call (312) 224-0028, or fill out and submit the interactive form below. Aaron Fox Law is committed to helping guide you patiently step by step. With our representation and handling of your case, you do not even need to come to court — we look forward to representing you.
Most Common Violations
- No Business License
- No Business License Displayed
- Deceptive Practices
- Overweight Vehicle
- Interfering with Official Duties
No Business License (MCC 4-4-020(a) )
The fine range on this ordinance violation ticket is between $200 and $1000 per day the violation continues. This comes with court costs between $40 and $60, depending on several determining factors.
You should note, just because you paid the licensing fee to the City of Chicago, this does not necessarily mean you have a valid business license. If the City of Chicago did not send you a business license, then for some particular reason the City of Chicago has not issued you a business license. Likely, the best thing to do is to go to City Hall, clear up any particular hold on your business account and obtain the license from City Hall. Afterwards, you should deal with the Ordinance ticket at 400 W. Superior.
You should consult with an attorney on this matter.
Failure to Display Business License Insignia (MCC 4-4-210)
The fine range on this ordinance violation ticket is between $200 and $1000 per day the violation continues. This comes with court costs between $40 and $60, depending on several determining factors.
You should note, just because you paid the licensing fee to the City of Chicago, this does not necessarily mean you have a valid business license. If the City of Chicago did not send you a business license, then for some particular reason the City of Chicago has not issued you a business license. Being so, you obviously could not display the license. Likely, the best thing to do is to go to City Hall, clear up any particular hold on your business account and obtain the license from City Hall. Afterwards, you should deal with the Ordinance ticket at 400 W. Superior.
You should consult with an attorney on this matter.
Deceptive Practices (MCC 4-276-470)
The fine range on this ordinance violation ticket is between $50 and $2000 per day the violation continues. This comes with court costs between $40 and $60, depending on several determining factors.
You should note, that for some of the deceptive practices, the City of Chicago takes very seriously. Having on the counter for sale expired infant formula and expired medicine, the City of Chicago will be asking for a higher fine. Additionally, if this is a repeat offense, the City of Chicago will take that into consideration when asking for a higher fine.
You should consult with an attorney on this matter.
Overweight Vehicle (MCC 9-72-080(a) )
The fine on this ordinance violation ticket depends on the amount the vehicle was overweight. The fine can exceed $4000. This comes with court costs between $40 and $60, depending on several determining factors.
You should note, this ticket usually comes with another violation - MCC 2-25-080 - interfering with official duties. This additional violation has a fine range of $2000 to $10,000.
You should consult with an attorney on this matter.
Interfering with Official Duties (MCC 2-25-080 )
The fine range on this ordinance violation ticket is between $2000 to $10,000. This comes with court costs between $40 and $60, depending on several determining factors.
You should note, this ticket usually comes with another violation - MCC 9-72-080(a) - exceeding the weight limit. This additional violation has a fine range that depends on the amount the vehicle was overweight. The fine can can exceed $4000.
You should consult with an attorney on this matter.