Block Parties allow neighbors to close residential streets that they live on to hold community-building and recreational events with their immediate neighbors. Organizations looking to host events or those looking to close arterial streets should apply for an outdoor special event permit instead. 

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In order to host a block party, you must obtain a permit from the Department of Transportation to close your street. Street closures can occur from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on the day of your event.  Applications can be obtained from our office. Once the application is completed. please return it to our office for processing. 

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If this is your first time applying for a block party, our office asks that you communicate with your neighbors for support of the event. A house meeting to discuss dates & times is also highly recommended.

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We encourage you to submit your application at least 30 days in advance.

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Please be advised that neighbors are responsible for providing their own barricades for their events and must maintain a 10-foot minimum lane at all times to ensure emergency vehicles have clear access. The 49th Ward office is happy to provide non-enforceable "No Parking" signs to block party organizers. These signs must be hung up at least 48-hours in advance of the event. Since the signs are not enforceable, vehicles that remain parked will not be ticketed. ​​