Special Events and Expanded Outdoor Permits
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2022 Expanded Outdoor Dining Application
Expanded Outdoor Dining FAQ (pdf) This new permit has been created specifically for temporary outdoor service for bars on restaurants on the public way or private property. Individual, fully-licensed food and/or liquor establishments may apply to temporarily use private property to extend service space, where adherence to public health guidelines are observed. Individual establishments that serve liquor only may apply to use the sidewalk space in front of or immediately adjacent to their establishment. Six feet of pedestrian access must be maintained, and barriers must be placed around outdoor service areas on the sidewalk. Retail Food Establishments should use the sidewalk café permit to operate on the sidewalk – learn more here. Applications for street closure will be accepted from Chambers of Commerce, SSAs, Business Associations, or a minimum of three (3) establishments (on a contiguous city block) applying together. At least 50 percent of participating establishments must serve food. Applicant(s) may request full street closure (maintaining a 14-foot fire lane) or use of private property, as long as:
There is no processing fee to submit the application for any Expanded Outdoor Dining Permit. |
2022 Online Special Event Permit Application(Not Required for Expanded Outdoor Dining Application ) DCASE processes Special Events applications for outdoor festivals, street and art/craft fairs and athletic events. Special Event Permits will be issued but are subject to change based on updated health and safety guidelines from either the City of Chicago or State of Illinois. All events must follow guidelines in place at the time of the event. Applications must be completed in full with supporting attachments to prevent delays in processing. Contact SEPermits@cityofchicago.org with any questions.
Please review the Special Event Permit Application Guide for guidance. Outdoor events held in the City of Chicago must complete a Special Event Permit Application if the event
Bar Crawls must also complete an application if the event
DCASE Processing Fee:
Applications will NOT be accepted less than 14 days Events taking place on Chicago Park District property require an additional Park District Special Event Permit |
Supporting Information Facts
Additional Information
Chicago Festival & Event Guide
Check out the Choose Chicago festival & event guide for a full list of events traditionally held each month in Chicago.
Questions? Email SEPermits@cityofchicago.org
Special Event Permit Application Guide
How to Create a Web Portal Account
Outdoor Event EMS Requirements
Accessibility at Outdoor Events
Choosing an Event Management Company