2026 Compliance Checklist for Breweries in Illinois: Licensing, Distribution, and Regulatory Risks

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Brewing craft beer is your passion and your business. But you know that there are many rules and regulations you have to follow. As 2026 draws nearer, you need to ensure you have all your ducks in a row. The right Illinois lawyer can help you navigate the complex rules breweries face. Using a 2026 compliance checklist can help you get started as well. 

The skilled brewery law attorneys at Bielski Chapman, Ltd. know the incredible amount of regulations you deal with. We ensure you stay compliant so you can focus more attention on your craft. Avoid financial penalties and the risk of getting shut down by working with an experienced team of lawyers with a true appreciation for what you do.  

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Step 1: Get the Correct Licensure

Licensing can be frustrating and annoying, but it is also essential. In Illinois, brewers are often required to get licenses and permits such as:

  • An Illinois Liquor Control Commission License
  • A Federal Brewer’s Notice
  • Local permits in your city
  • Special event permits for festivals or tastings

For many of these licenses, they are not one-time things. There are renewal requirements you must remember and keep up with. A brewery attorney can help.

Step 2: Understand Distribution Rules

Distribution is tightly regulated in Illinois under the three-tier system. Breweries have to follow all of these rules to avoid issues in your distribution:

  • Self-Distribution: Certain breweries are permitted to self-distribute if you meet certain requirements. 
  • Distributor Agreements: For larger breweries, or as you scale up, you may work with licensed distributors. These require detailed legal agreements compliant with state and federal law. 
  • Labeling Requirements: All beer sold must meet TTB and ILCC labeling standards, including alcohol content, health warnings, and origin.
  • Shipping and Delivery: It is important to know who you can ship to and the specific laws in Illinois. Your lawyer can provide you advice on how to get your product to customers legally. 

Step 3: Know Your Tax Obligations

Taxes are a major compliance area for breweries. Taxes you may have to consider include:

  • Federal excise tax
  • State excise tax
  • Sales tax
  • Payroll tax
  • Employment tax

Step 4: Address Health and Safety Regulations

Illinois breweries are subject to the same rules as other businesses, but also have special requirements related to food and beverage service.

  • OSHA Standards: Cover equipment safety, chemical handling, and employee training.
  • Sanitation Requirements: Breweries must follow Illinois Department of Public Health guidelines for cleanliness and food safety.
  • Employee Training: Staff should be trained in safe brewing practices, emergency procedures, and responsible alcohol service.

Step 5: Dealing with Environmental Compliance Concerns

Breweries can have an impact on the environment, so the regulations are strict in this area. Your brewery will have to consider how you deal with wastewater and meet local treatment standards. You must also deal with solid waste disposal, such as the byproducts of your brewing process. The proper disposal and recycling is critical.

Illinois also offers certain incentives for breweries that use sustainable practices. Understanding what these are and how to get these benefits can be complicated, but your lawyer can help. 

Step 6: Evaluate Advertising and Marketing Practices

Your beer is delicious, and you want to tell people about. Advertising and marketing is permissible of course, but is subject to several important rules:

  • You must be truthful in your advertising about health benefits and alcohol content.
  • Social media posts must not target underage audiences.
  • Promotional events and discounts must comply with legal guidelines

Step 7: Identify Regulatory Risks for 2026

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As the New Year approaches, consider the following for your Illinois brewery:

  • 2026 is expected to see increased audits and inspections
  • Oversight of online ordering or delivery platforms may increase
  • New labor law updates could arise that affect your staffing
  • Sustainability mandates are always shifting, and could affect your brewery

Work with an Experienced Brewery Law Attorney in Illinois to Ensure Compliance for 2026

Follow this checklist and watch your brewery continue to grow. Don’t assume you are compliant, even with your best efforts unless you have legal counsel provide you assurances. This area of law is so complex, and an honest mistake could shut down your operations. Continue your brew and your art by checking off each of your requirements. 

Let the experienced brewery law attorneys at Bielski Chapman, Ltd. help you stay compliant. Contact us today for a free consultation.