Private & Special Events

Public Works begins accepting online applications for special events

In 2022, the City of Sheboygan Department of Public Works began an initiative to streamline the Special Events process for the community. Previously, the number of required permits and the need to coordinate with multiple departments created challenges for event organizers. In response, key representatives from all City departments collaborated to develop a comprehensive Special Event Ordinance that now provides a unified framework for hosting special events within the City.

Building on this effort, the Department of Public Works further recognized the need for a user-friendly, online permitting process. To support organizers and improve efficiency, DPW will soon launch a new special event application system that will allow applicants to complete and submit special event requests entirely online, beginning with the 2026 events cycle.

If you are planning an event for 2025 or early 2026, please contact the DPW Office for assistance and guidance:

• dpwoffice.sheboygan@sheboyganwi.gov
• 920-459-3440, option 7

What is a Special Event?

Special events are defined as an event that is open to the public and is scheduled in advance to occur on city property and which has any of the following:

• Alcohol, beverages, food, and/or merchandise are sold, or dispensed in exchange for donations;
• Fireworks display;
• Offers amusement rides, inflatables, music (live or pre-recorded), etc.;
• Involves the closure of any street, parking lane, or right-of-way;
  
• Involves the temporary installation of structures such as tents, staging, bleachers, signs, etc.; or
  
• An expected attendance of fifty (50) or more persons

Examples of special events include but are not limited to competition and athletic events; music, theater, film performances or filming; carnivals; fairs; cultural events; religious services; classes; meetings; parties; and other gatherings meeting the above criteria.

To find more information on upcoming events scheduled in the community, please visit the Sheboygan Area Tourism Website.

You can also find more information on upcoming events scheduled in the community by visiting the Sheboygan County Chamber's website.

• The Sheboygan County Chamber allows you easily add your event to the calendar. 
• Simply visit the website linked above, then click the '+' icon in the upper right corner of the calendar to start! 

Uptown Parklet

Uptown Parklet, located at on St. Clair Avenue between N. 8th Street and N. 9th Street, is a park that provides a beautiful and peaceful space for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax, have a picnic, or simply take a stroll, Uptown Parklet is the perfect destination.

New for 2025, the City of Sheboygan is pleased to announce that the recently revamped Uptown Parklet is included as a reservable space for special events open to the public. Uptown Parklet offers approximately 5000 square feet of space for your special event. On-site amenities include a portable aluminum modular stage, lighting, ADA accessible picnic tables, café tables and chairs, regular and curved benches, landscaping planters, umbrellas and trash receptacles.

To determine availability or request a reservation, please contact the Department of Public Works. Reservations for Uptown Parklet may be made only for special events, open to the public, and will also require submission of a special event application.

Private events are defined as an event that is not open to the public and is scheduled in advance to occur on city property and which has any of the following:

• Alcohol, beverages, food, and/or merchandise are sold, or dispensed in exchange for donations;
  
• Fireworks display;
  
• Offers amusement rides, inflatables, music (live or pre-recorded), etc.;
• Involves the closure of any street, parking lane, or right-of-way;
  
• Involves the temporary installation of structures such as tents, staging, bleachers, signs, etc.; or
  
• An expected attendance of fifty (50) or more persons

Examples of private events include but are not limited to company picnics; religious services; classes; meetings; and other gatherings meeting the above criteria.

Questions about private event applications can be emailed to DPWOffice.sheboygan@sheboyganwi.gov.