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 180 days or less.

Tent and Temporary Structure Permits

Tents (with enclosed sides), canopies (with open sides), and similar temporary structures (to be errected continuously for 180 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 Construction Codes.)

• Tents and temporary structures up to 600 square feet may obtain a permit through the Easy Permit Program.
• Larger tents and temporary structures must use the Standard Plan Review Process or Self-Certification Permit Program. Applications must follow the Tent and Canopy Permit Procedures.

Stage and Platform Permits

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

• Stages and platforms greater than 24" in height must use the Standard Plan Review Process or Self-Certification Permit Program. Applications must follow the Stage and Platform Permit Procedures.