City Administration Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

I am interested in being appointed to a City board or commission.

The Advisory Board and Commission Manual(PDF, 490KB) contains useful information about what is involved in being a member of any of these commissions as well as other information pertaining to roles, appointed officials guidelines, staff liaison guidelines and procedures/tips for new commissioners.

Get Involved! Learn how to Serve on a Board or Commission

Business Licenses - What are the requirements for a business license?

The City of St. Charles does not require general business licenses. Licenses are required for:

  • Carnival License
  • Cigarette License
  • Coin-op Amusement License
  • Liquor Application - First Time
  • Liquor Application - Renewal
  • Liquor Application - 1-Day Not-for-profit
  • Liquor Application - 1-Day Special Civic Event
  • Loudspeaker License
  • Scavenger License Application
  • Towing License Application

 All licensing is handled in the Mayor's office. The Mayor is also the City Liquor Commissioner.

The types of businesses required to obtain a business license are outlined in Title 5 - Business Licenses and Regulations

"A person is required to obtain a license and is subject to subsequent fees whenever a license is required for the maintenance, operation or conduct of any business or establishment, or for doing business or engaging in any activity or occupation, actively or passively; or performs or attempts to perform any part of such business or occupation in the city."

 

Questions about annual license renewal.

All City licenses are renewed annually in April.

Questions about licenses for coin operated game machines.

This license applies only to game machines, not vending machines.

How long does it take to obtain a liquor license once I turn in my initial application?

The Local Liquor Control Commissioner shall issue a written acceptance or rejection of such application within sixty days of its receipt by the Local Liquor Control Commissioner or city clerk in his behalf.

For further information please see Title 5 of City Codebook.

 

 

Questions about insurance liability requirements for carnival licenses

A certificate of insurance is required with the application.

Questions about tobacco/cigarette license applications.

This license is required for all establishments that sell tobacco products.

Questions about towing licenses and fees.

This licenses applies to towing companies that are able to tow cars within the City limits. Companies licensed by the City do not necessarily tow cars for the City.

Questions about raffle licenses.

Raffle licenses are administered by Kane County for raffles held within the City limits and within Kane County. Questions about applications and requirements should be directed to the Kane County Clerk at 232-5950.

How can I find services available for senior residents in St. Charles?

This information is also available in the St. Charles Senior Resource Guide. Please complete this form and include your request for a mailed copy in the 'Comments' section of the form.

How do I get my banners hung from City streetlights?

Under limited circumstances and for limited times, the Director of Public Works or his/her designee may authorize the placement of banners on Banner Facilities. The Director of Public Works or his/her designee will use the "Standards" Criteria in determining whether to permit the display of the banner(s), for determining the location of the banner(s), and for determining how long the display of the banner(s) shall be permitted.

The City's banner poles are fixed and are not adjustable.

For questions regarding specific criteria please see the Display of Streetlight Banners policy(PDF, 34KB) statement of the City Municipal code.

 

 

 

 

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