In order to forward the regulatory function of the Environmental Health Department and its mission to protect the well-being of businesses, residents, and visitors, the Department oversees and manages certain aspects of retail food establishment licensing and permitting.

If you are interested in opening a new restaurant in the Village of Northbrook, we encourage you to download and view our Guide to Opening a New Restaurant (PDF).

ANSI-Accredited Certificates

As of July 1, 2014, all food handlers in the State of Illinois are required to maintain ANSI-Accredited Certificate. For more information, please view the news release (PDF).

Food Service License Information

• Apply for a Business License
• Apply for a Mobile Food Vendor License (i.e. Food Truck) (PDF)
• Apply for a Temporary Food Vendor License (Special Events)
• Food Service Inspection Information
• Food Protection Reminders and Information - Information and resources regarding diseases and illnesses and how to protect yourself
• Apply for Outdoor Seating License
• Apply for a Liquor License

Important

For restaurants and mobile food vendors; an inspection must be scheduled and passed prior to applying for a business license.

Special Note

All food-related licenses and permits must be issued before any food item is received, prepared, served or sold; are not transferable; must be displayed on site in a location easily visible to the public; and are valid only for the time displayed on the license or permit.

Food Service Establishment Links & Resources

• IDPH Food Service Sanitation Code
• IDPH Retail Food Store Code
• Emergency Readiness for Food Workers (PDF)
• Emergency Handbook for Food Managers (PDF)

Reporting a Concern Online

If you observe practices that may be unsanitary, you can request an inspection with the Village of Northbrook. All requests are investigated by the Department and Cook County.

If you believe you or someone you know may have come into contact with food or water-borne bacteria, please contact the Cook County Department of Public Health Communicable Disease Center at 708-633-8030 immediately or submit a report to Cook County online, through the Food Borne Illness Complaint Form.

Residents may also request an inspection online via the GONorthbrook service request system or by calling the Environmental Health Division at 847-664-4059, Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. If you provide your email address on the form you will be sent updates regarding any enforcement activity that takes place.