Tuesday, April 15, 2025 | View in browser
 EVANSTON, IL - The City has successfully launched its upgraded Citizen Portal, providing a more streamlined and user-friendly experience for residents and businesses seeking permits or contractor registration. With all updated permitting modules now live, the new system enhances processing efficiency for City staff while delivering a fully electronic, convenient application process for the community.
Steps to Submit a Building Permit or Contractor Registration Online:
- Visit permits.cityofevanston.org/CitizenAccess
- Register: First-time users must select “Register for an Account” to set up access
- Apply: Browse the available permits, select your needed permit type, and complete the online application
Upgraded Modules:
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Public Works - Moving Vehicle, Storage Container, and Right of Way permits. This program allows customers to reserve public parking spaces and/or other public right-of-way spaces for loading and unloading without obstructing traffic flow.
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Property Standards - All housing applications include Rental Registration, Shared Housing, and Vacant Buildings.
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Zoning - Zoning applications for acceptable projects or proposed changes to zoning rules in a zoning district. As well as Zoning permits that include Planned Development and Home Occupation Permits.
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Business Registration - All business registration renewals must be submitted through the Citizen Portal. After logging in, applicants will create an account and select the “Licenses” tab to choose between new registrations or renewals. If renewing, applicants must enter a valid license number and verify their information, with the option to update contact details (excluding address or ownership changes). All businesses—including non-profits and home-based businesses—are required to renew annually. The deadline to renew for 2025 is April 30. There is no renewal fee for non-profit or home-based businesses, but for-profit, brick-and-mortar businesses must pay a $75 renewal fee online.
Community members must continue using the existing application processes for the following permits/licenses:
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Liquor Licenses - The City’s website includes direct links to all liquor license applications, including those for new businesses, changes in ownership or corporate structure, changes in license class, and annual renewals. It also provides access to business license applications for all types of business entities operating within City limits, including those regulated under State or Federal law, as well as home-based occupations.
For additional information or assistance, please contact the Permit Desk at 847-448-8207.
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Media Contacts:
Cynthia Vargas
cvargas@cityofevanston.org
Phone: 847-448-8234
Jessie Mayo
jmayo@cityofevanston.org
Phone: 847-448-8041
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