Aurora, IL Special Events & Permits: Street Fair Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Rule
- Vendor sales barred without approval
- Food/alcohol
- Needs ch. 6 & 25 license
- Covers
- Street fairs, festivals, carnivals
- Permit
- Tiered by size, § 41.5-111
Summary
Aurora, Illinois bars selling goods, food, or beverages at a city street fair or festival unless the special-events coordinator approves it or the vendor is separately licensed under the city's business code.
Except as provided in subsection (b), a person may not sell goods on city property, or on a city street, sidewalk, or right-of-way within the area permitted for a special event. The sale of goods may occur if: The coordinator approves the sale of goods on city property, or on a city street, sidewalk, or right-of-way within the area permitted for the special event; or The permittee obtains a closure permit under section 41.5-111; or The vendor is authorized under chapter 25 of this Code. Except as provided in subsection (d), a person may not provide food or beverages, including alcohol, at a special event. At a special event, a person may provide food or beverages, including alcohol, only if the person is authorized to under chapter 6 (Alcoholic Liquor) and chapter 25 (Licenses, Permits, and Misc. Business Regs.). The provision of food or beverages at a special event shall comply with the requirements under any applicable chapter of this Code. (Ord. No. O19-002, § Exh. E, 1-22-19)
HISTORY Amended by Ord. O22-016 on 2/22/2022 Amended by Ord. O23-004 on 1/24/2023
Full Breakdown
Aurora Code of Ordinances § 41.5-154 bars a person from selling goods on city property or on a city street, sidewalk, or right-of-way within a permitted special event area unless the coordinator approves the sale, the permittee holds a closure permit, or the vendor is authorized under chapter 25. The same section bars providing food or beverages, including alcohol, at a special event unless authorized under chapter 6 (Alcoholic Liquor) and chapter 25. Street fairs, festivals, and carnivals qualify as special events under § 41.5-102 and need a permit under § 41.5-110 through the special events coordinator, classified by expected size and street closures under § 41.5-111. Rules apply citywide.
Violations & Fines
Selling goods or serving food without coordinator approval or the required chapter 25/chapter 6 authorization is a violation enforced under the chapter's article VI enforcement provisions, including citation and permit revocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I set up a food stand at an Aurora street fair without a permit?
Who approves vendors at Aurora festivals and carnivals?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Aurora
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Street Fair Rules in Nearby Cities
How other cities in this county handle street fair rules.