Permits are required for most tents, stages, and similar structures. A streamlined permitting process is available for temporary structures which will be in place for 60 days or less.

Tent and Canopy Permits

Tents (with enclosed sides), canopies (with open sides), and similar temporary structures (to be errected continuously for 60 days or less) exceeding 400 square feet in area require a building permit. (Smaller temporary structures do not require a building permit but must still comply with all requirements of the Chicago Building Code.)

• Tent and Canopy Permit Procedures

Stage and Platform Permits

Temporary stages and platforms greater than  24" (2 feet) in height require a building permit. (Other temporary stages and platforms do not require a building permit but must still comply with all requirements of the Chicago Building Code.)

• Stage and Platform Permit Procedures