Fees vary with the size and nature of the event and equipment and services requested. The Police Department determines the classification of events - A, B, C, or D - according to the number of police service hours required. Insurance is required for events classified as A, B, or C. You must submit to the Special Event Permit Office an original certificate of insurance providing minimum combined single limits for bodily injury and property damage of $1,000,000; and naming the City of Milwaukee as additional insured. Private businesses and non-profit organizations, including churches, are charged event fees as they apply. Permit fees must be received at least three days prior to the event. Fees are payable by cash or check made payable to "City of Milwaukee."

Neighborhood block parties and most neighborhood festivals are classified as D and do not require insurance. Residents organizing a block party receive the use of barricades at no cost.

The permit will be mailed to you after the Permit Office has received your payment, or if there is no fee, after the application is processed. Or, you may arrange to pick up the permit at the office.

If your special event will include food, music or alcohol please see, Additional Special Event Permit Information