Mission: To provide diverse and affordable recreational opportunities to Cook County residents while remaining respectful of the natural environment.
The Permits & Recreation Department has many diverse responsibilities that include:
Monitors the operation and management of eight 18 hole golf courses, two 9 hole golf courses, and four driving ranges, currently managed and maintained by Billy Casper Golf, Inc.
Picnic Permit Office
Sells Picnic Permits To The Public in person at the District’s General Headquarters in River Forest, Illinois. Also sells permits via the internet.
Sells Snowmobile Permits and Activity Cards To The Public
Operates Three (3) Pools
Issues permits that allow picnic permit holders to special accommodations (tent, beer truck, caterer, rides, generator, lights, overflow parking, etc.). Requires a picnic permit fee and proof of $1,000,000 liability insurance.
Issues permits to the public for special activities not included in picnic permits and/or special use permits. Usually sold to a group, organization, or business. Permit types include: soccer clubs, baseball groups, model airplane groups, dog clubs, and commercial photography. Requires a fee and proof of liability insurance (Amounts vary; please see picnic permit page).
Camping Permits
Issues permits for tent and/or cabin camping to youth organizations for a fee.
Concessions/Professional Service Contracts
Coordinates the administration/management of the District’s concessions operations with legal (contract), and finance (payment) to ensure compliance with all requirements for the District and all needs for the vendor.
