Special and temporary events

You need a permit for special and temporary events. This includes for block events, tents, parades and races, food and beverages at events and more.

Special event permits

Bleachers and stages

See the City's permit requirements for bleachers and stages at events.

Block events

Block events in neighborhoods and business districts require a permit.

Bonfires and fireworks

Bonfires, open flames and fireworks require a special event permit.

Explosives and hazardous materials

You need a permit to store, use or handle hazardous materials.

Food and beverages

You need a permit to sell or serve food at public events and farmers' markets.

Merchandise

If you plan to sell or give away items at your event, you may need a permit.

Parades and races

We require a permit for any parade or race on city streets or alleys.

Propane

You need a special permit to use liquified petroleum (LP) gas equipment at an event.

Signs, banners and building wraps

The City must review signs or billboards mounted on a building or a roof.

Temporary structure use

Certain seasonal or temporary structures may require a temporary use permit.

Tents

We require a permit to set up a tent, canopy or membrane structure for any purpose.

Temporary licenses and permits

Alcohol temporary permit

You can apply for a temporary alcohol permit for an event.

Carnival, circus or children's ride

You need a license to run a traveling show or amusement ride for children.

Charitable gambling

Charitable gambling requires an exempt lawful gambling permit.

Christmas tree dealer

Christmas tree dealers in Minneapolis need a license.

Film or video

Learn what to know to do film or video work in Minneapolis.

Flea market

You need a license to sell arts, crafts, antiques or secondhand goods in Minneapolis.

Flower cart vendor

Flower cart vendors in Minneapolis need a license to sell on sidewalks or Nicollet Mall.

Going out of business sale

You need a license to sell items if you are closing your business.

Facility use of City-owned lots

You can apply to use a City-owned parking or vacant lot for up to seven days.

Street photographer

If you plan to sell photographs you take on a city street or sidewalk, you need a license.

Water fountain permit

You can apply to get a portable water fountain for your outdoor event.

Temporary rental hall

Get a permit to rent a building or room for a private event for four or fewer days a year.

Related resources

Obstruct right-of-way permit

You need an obstruction permit to close any part of a city street, sidewalk or lane. This includes for events.

Outdoor sound permit

You need a permit to use sound-amplifying equipment outside for an event.

Recycling and garbage at events

Reduce waste at events and learn what to do with the waste you collect.

Become a farmers market vendor

Learn how to become a food vendor at a Minneapolis farmers market.

Related links

More special event permits

More temporary licenses & permits

Contact us

Business Licenses & Consumer Services

 

Phone
612-673-2080

Fax
612-673-3399

Address

Public Service Building
505 Fourth Ave. S., Room 220
Minneapolis, MN 55415

Office hours
8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Monday – Thursday

9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Friday