Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become a Chamber member and what are the benefits?

If you have an established business or newly registered business in good standing, we welcome your application to join the chamber. Go to Join the Chamber to sign up or call the Chamber office (708-771-5760) and we’ll send you a packet of information and application.

What are some of the benefits of Membership in the Chamber?

The OP-RF Chamber of Commerce has over 500 members and our mission is to support the economic climate and stability of business enterprises in our communities. We offer a variety of networking and marketing vehicles to help establish your business. Look at Join the Chamber for more info and Get Involved link to learn more about benefits of membership.

I would like to start a business in Oak Park, what do I need to do?

Depending on the type of business you are starting, you may need certain state licensing from the Secretary of State’s office. You can find more information at the State Website or call 312-793-3380. The Village of Oak Park publishes a handbook for new businesses. You can contact the Village or by phone 708-358-5670.

Is there an apartment referral service?

The Oak Park Regional Housing Center has listings for apartments in a variety of sizes, styles, rents, and building types. Located adjacent to Downtown Oak Park on South Blvd., call 708-848-7150 or visit: apartmentsoakpark.org.

I am a new resident. What utility companies do I need to contact?

Commonwealth Edison is you electricity supplier. They can be reached at: 800-334-7661.
NICOR Gas supplies natural gas and handles appliance check ups. They can be reached at: 888-642-6748. (TDD: 800-942-9727)
SBC Ameritech provides telephone service to both villages. For residential installation call: 800-244-4444.
Comcast is the local cable provider. They can be reached at: 866-594-1234.
Water is provided from Lake Michigan through the City of Chicago and will be billed directly to residents on a quarterly basis. Contact the Oak Park Water Department at: 708-358-5700; 708-358-5478 for billing inquiries. Contact the River Forest Water Department at: 708-366-8500 for all water related matters.

How do I arrange for trash collection?

Both villages charge for trash collection. Recycling bins and collection containers are provided. All inquiries should be directed to:
Oak Park Public Works at 708-358-5700 or River Forest Public Works at 708-366-5240.

Is there a local library?

Yes, both villages have public libraries. Oak Park has a main facility and 2 branch locations. Call the main library at 708-383-8200 or visit www.oppl.org. Contact the River Forest Library at 708-366-5205 or visit riverforestlib.org.

Where is the post office?

Oak Park has a main facility located at 901 Lake Street (708-848-2440) and a location in south Oak Park at 1116 Garfield (708-848-6561). You can also call 800-ASK-USPS for service information and zip codes.

What are the local zip codes?

60301: north of Madison, Harlem to Euclid; North Blvd. To Ontario
60302: north of Madison
60303: Oak Park post office boxes
60304: south of Madison
60305: River Forest

How can I contact the police?

Dialing 911 from an Oak Park or River Forest exchange will connect you to the emergency dispatch center for both villages for police, fire, and paramedic response. For non-emergency police matters, call 708-386-3800 in Oak Park. Call 708-366-7125 in River Forest.