Mount Prospect, IL Special Events & Permits: Street Fair Rules (2026)

Section 10.101 defines a special event as a planned temporary activity that can include public entertainment, food and beverage service, or the sale of souvenirs or other merchandise. It qualifies when it is held on Village-owned or Village-controlled property, or when it is held primarily outdoors on other property open to the public and either needs a village license or liquor license or requires special village services. Street closures, barricades, trash receptacles, parking signs, electrical service, police and fire/EMS protection and public works assistance all count as special village services.

The applicant files a written application with the village manager or designee on the Village's forms at least thirty business days before the start. The application needs a hold harmless agreement, a certificate of insurance naming the Village of Mount Prospect as additional insured for $1,000,000 per incident and $2,000,000 aggregate, and a sworn affidavit that the information is complete and truthful. Any separate license application, such as a temporary food permit or tent permit, is filed with the special event application. Alcohol sales must follow Chapter 13 and need a special event liquor license under section 13.204.1(D)(2)(B).

The village manager decides within fourteen business days, after departments review traffic, police and fire protection, noise and public safety. Approval criteria include no felony conviction for the applicant or event manager, no delinquent Village taxes, no substantial interference with traffic, and no conflict with a previously scheduled event. After approval the applicant pays estimated costs in advance. A permit cannot be transferred or used at another location, and an event cannot run more than seven consecutive days. If a street is closed, a clear path of not less than ten feet must stay open for emergency vehicles. The event manager cleans public streets and sidewalks afterward and repairs any damage.