Forest Preserves picnic and event permit holders can obtain Special Use Items (inflatables, generators, tents, chairs, etc.) directly through Approved Vendors without any additional insurance requirements. Basic Picnic Permit holders must use an Approved Vendor for rented Special Use Items.
On this page:
Overview
Items not naturally found in a forest preserve are typically considered Special Use Items. Examples include, but are not limited to: amplified sound (DJ, stereo system, live band, etc.), generators, grills wider than 5 feet, inflatables, on-site catering, portable bathrooms or snack machines. If you are unsure if your event requires adding a Special Use Item to your permit, please contact us.
Rented Special Use Items
Basic Picnic Permit holders must use an Approved Vendor for all rented Special Use Items.
Personally Owned Items, On-site Catering and Portable Bathroom Rental
Permit holders may use personally owned Special Use Items. They may also use the vendor of their choice for on-site catering or portable bathroom rentals.
However, permit holders must submit a Certificate of Liability Insurance with the endorsement attached, naming the Forest Preserves of Cook County as an additional insured in the amount of $1,000,000 per occurrence. All documentation, including any rental contracts and receipts, must be submitted and approved at least 10 business days prior to the event.
- Sample Certificate of Liability Insurance (PDF).
- One-day event insurance is sometimes available through a home insurance policy. Some permit holders obtain insurance online as well.
Approved Vendor List
View a map showing the five geographic zones (PDF)
For an optimal viewing experience, please access the Approved Vendor List in full screen via Google Sheets.
How to Use an Approved Vendor
- Obtain a Forest Preserves Picnic/Event permit.
- Rent a Special Use Item (inflatables, generators, tents, chairs, etc.) through a vendor listed below (be sure to provide the approved vendor with a copy of your permit).
- Approved vendor will issue you a rental agreement listing items you have rented for your event.
- Submit rental agreement(s) and Special Use Items request form to the Forest Preserves Permit Office.
- Forest Preserves reaches out to permit holder to collect payment (fees: $25 processing fee + $10/item).
- Permit holder receives an updated permit with Special Use Item(s) included.
Special Use Item request forms and documentation received less than two weeks prior to the event date may be denied or incur a $25 late fee. Permit holders must apply directly with the Forest Preserves to add a Special Use Item to their permit, and outdoor use of these items must conclude by one hour before sunset or by 7:30 pm, whichever comes first. Additionally, vendors may charge permit holders extra fees for providing insurance coverage, and any issues with rentals must be addressed directly with the vendor.
Apply to Become an Approved Vendor
Are you interested in becoming an Approved Vendor?
- Complete and submit the Approved Vendor Application (PDF)
- Submit the required fee and documents
- Your business is added to the Approved Vendor list
Inclusion on the approved vendor list does not guarantee any business from Forest Preserves permit holders.