Sheboygan, WI Special Events & Permits: Street Fair Rules (2026)

Article VIII of Chapter 110 of the Sheboygan Municipal Code governs street festivals, replacing the earlier version in 2021. Section 110-401 defines a street festival as a public event sponsored by one or more individuals, businesses or organizations held within a city street right-of-way or other public thoroughfare that has been temporarily closed for the occasion. Block parties are excluded, and "temporarily" means less than 72 hours; those wanting a longer closure are pointed to a parklet permit under article X.

The application under section 110-403 must give the closure time and date and the exact portion of street, the full name and address of each sponsor (including each partner, or each director of a corporation or limited liability company), a list of adults who reside or do business on that portion and a statement that they were contacted, with objectors listed. It must say whether alcohol will be served, sold or given away and whether it will be permitted in the closed right-of-way. If alcohol is involved, the application must add the licensed agent's name and address, a plan for where it will be served and how underage persons will be prevented from obtaining it, and evidence of licenses and documentation such as a temporary change of premises. It also needs a safety plan and proof of liability insurance of at least $100,000.00 per individual and $300,000.00 per incident or occurrence naming the City of Sheboygan as an additional insured. Any objection from a resident or business on the blocked portion requires denial.

Section 110-404 has the chief of police deny a permit when closing the street would be illegal or unsafe, would cause or tend to cause unreasonable traffic congestion, would result in a disturbance of the peace, would endanger public health, welfare and safety, or would unreasonably hamper access to a residence or business. Under section 110-405 the applicant notifies the police and fire departments, bus companies and private ambulance services no less than three business days before, supplies the barricades, and answers for noise under section 66-71. Section 110-406 sets the hours, and for consecutive days approved by the chief of police the street can stay blocked overnight, with no one but the applicant or a bona fide employee permitted in it between 12:00 midnight and 10:00 a.m.

Vendors register separately. Under section 78-62, a sponsoring organization can register its authorized transient vendors with the city clerk at least five days before the event, with a $5.00 fee for each authorized vendor and a signed statement from each vendor appointing the city clerk to accept service of process.