Special Events & Permits in McLean County, IL (2026)
3 rules for unincorporated McLean County, Illinois.
Verified from official government sources
Park Event Permits
McLean County requires groups to reserve Comlara Park's picnic shelters in advance for exclusive use, capping each shelter at 150 people, under Code § 282-10. Reservations run seasonally from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend and require a fee.
McLean County Picnic Shelter Reservation Permits
Some RestrictionsMcLean County Code § 282-10A, D
Reservations will be made available to groups and organizations for the exclusive use of designated picnic shelters at Comlara Park, depending on the size of the group, beginning Memorial Day weekend and continuing through Labor Day weekend. ... A maximum group size per shelter will be set at 150 people. Groups larger in size must reserve both picnic shelters if available.
Parade Permits
McLean County treats walks, runs, bike tours and races as Type 1 special events requiring an application to the Director of Building and Zoning, coordination with the road district commissioner and the Sheriff, and an approved event route at least 10 days before the event.
McLean County Walk, Run and Bike Race Permits
Some RestrictionsMcLean County Code § 350-43MM(3)(b)[1][e]
Walks, runs and bike tours and races. Special events held exclusively for walks, runs and bike tours and races will be subject to application and review procedures, and general standards and conditions as set forth in this section. The applicant shall be required to submit an event route and to coordinate the logistics for use of public rights-of-way and safe crossings at intersections with the...
Street Fair Rules
McLean County classifies concerts, circuses, fairs, carnivals and festivals as Type 2 special events, allowed only in the C, M-1 or M-2 zoning districts and requiring County Board approval of the permit at least 20 days before the event.
McLean County Type 2 Fair and Festival Permits
Significant RestrictionsMcLean County Code § 350-43MM(3)(b)[2]
Type 2 special events. Short-term cultural and entertainment events shall be considered Type 2 special events. The Type 2 category shall include public or private events intended primarily for entertainment or amusement, such as concerts, circuses, fairs, carnivals or festivals. Type 2 special events shall only be allowed in a C, M-1 or M-2 District.
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