Economic Development FAQs

The business community of Zion is vibrant. From small specialty stores, restaurants, and service shops in the downtown business district to larger retailers throughout the city, Zion’s commercial scene is expanding.

A unique set of circumstances has aligned to make now the best time to invest in Zion. Here you can learn about the businesses that have already successfully set up shop, what the Zion Area Chamber of Commerce does to promote business, and how to contact someone about a tour of Zion’s commercial side.

Q: How do I start a business in Zion?

A: Contact the Illinois Small Business Development Center at the College of Lake County for free consultations and business plan development.

• Choose a business name – Contact the Lake County Assumed Names Division: lakecountyil.gov
• Incorporate your business – Work with an attorney to determine your business structure and register with the State:

Secretary of State
17 North State Street
Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 793-3380

• Obtain your Federal Identification Number – Required for corporations and partnerships:

Federal Taxpayer Service
230 South Dearborn, 17th Floor
Chicago, IL 60601
(800) 829-1040

Select a Site and Check Local Zoning

Contact Director Richard Ianson at the Building Department: (847) 746-4097 to verify site compliance and avoid zoning issues before signing leases or purchase contracts.

Obtain Your State Sales Tax Number

Illinois Department of Revenue
100 West Randolph (Lower Level)
Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 814-5258

Obtain Your Business License & Permits

Contact City Clerk Sheryl Spooner at (847) 746-4012 for information about licensing requirements.

Additional Resources

Illinois Finance Authority (IFA) provides financing tools to businesses, non-profits, and municipalities throughout the state.

Q: What is a TIF District?

A: A Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District allocates new property tax revenue to help fund public and private development in underdeveloped areas. Zion currently has two TIF districts:

• TIF #1: Central Business District (Sheridan Rd. from 24th to 31st St.)
• TIF #3: South Sheridan business corridor (31st St. to city limits)

Q: What type of development is the City of Zion looking for?

A: Zion is focused on retail, commercial, and light industrial projects to rebuild revenue after the closure of the ComEd Nuclear Facility.

Q: What services can a developer expect in Zion?

A: Zion offers a free Pre-Development Meeting (“Your Own City Hall Meeting”) with representatives from all departments to help streamline the development process and reduce upfront costs and confusion.