Special and temporary events

You need a permit for special and temporary events. This includes permits for commercial fireworks displays, tents, temporary structures and more.

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

We require a special event permit for bonfires, open flames and fireworks.

Explosives and hazardous materials

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

Food and beverages

We explain when you need a permit to sell or give away food at events.

Merchandise

If you plan to sell items at an event, you may need a permit.

Parades and races

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

Propane

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

Signs, banners and building wraps

We must review signs used at special events.

Street use

You need a permit to close sidewalks, parking lanes, bike lanes or traffic lanes.

Temporary use

Some assembly and amusement gatherings may qualify for a temporary conditional use permit.

Tents

We require a permit to set up a tent, canopy or membrane structure at an event.

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

We explain what you need 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 - City-owned lots

You can get a permit 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.

Tap Minneapolis 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

Temporary no parking

Obstruction permit

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

Garage and recycling

Recycling and garbage at events

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

Tap Mpls water fountain

Drinking water

You can provide drinking water at your outdoor event with a portable water fountain.

Mill City Farmers Market

Farmers market vendor

Find out what to know to become a food vendor at a Minneapolis farmers market.

More special event permits

More temporary licenses & permits

Innovative and emerging small business
Temporary body art event sponsor
Temporary extended hours of operation
Temporary parking lot, Class C

Contact us

Business Licenses & Consumer Services

Community Planning & Economic Development

Email Business Licenses

Phone

Fax

612-673-3399

Address

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

Last updated on December 23, 2025