Indianapolis, IN Special Events & Permits: Block Party Permits (2026)

Sec. 986-101 defines a block party as a distinct event held by and for the residents of a specific neighborhood or group of neighborhoods, lasting one day or less. Because a block party is still a special event under Chapter 986, Sec. 986-102(a) makes it unlawful to hold one without a special event license from the division of construction and business services, and the license administrator identifies the date and geographic boundaries under Sec. 986-102(b). What sets a block party apart is Sec. 986-103(b): the fee that Sec.

986-103(a) otherwise charges for a special event license, including any surcharge for fire department personnel or apparatus, does not apply to a block party. Organizers must still file the application described in Sec. 986-105 at least 30 days before the event, listing the proposed date, the geographic area to be closed, the number of expected attendees, the location and duration of any street closures, whether alcohol will be served, and a sanitation and traffic management plan, along with an indemnification agreement under Sec. 986-106 and a certificate of insurance naming the city as an additional insured.

If the block party involves closing a public street, blocking sidewalks or alleys, erecting a tent or stage, or distributing food, it falls within the broader definition of 'special event' in Sec. 986-101 that triggers the license requirement in the first place, fee waiver notwithstanding.