If you have a huge back yard, a “block party” can be held there and no permit is necessary. But if you want a block party in the true sense of the word – where the whole street, from one end to the other, is blocked off – you’ll need to obtain a permit first. Once you set the date, call your local government offices or the police department and ask what it takes to get permission for a block party in your area.
Rules and guidelines vary widely from region to region, so be sure to find out all the specifics of your particular area. You’re usually required to get a permit at least seven days in advance, and most cities require a signed petition from the people in your neighborhood – with at least seventy-five percent of the neighbors’ signatures. Some cities charge nominal fees, normally ranging anywhere from twenty-five to sixty-five dollars. There may even be a special-event insurance policy required to cover incidents of personal injury (here’s hoping you’ll never need it!). Some local police departments or government agencies may be able to provide roadblocks, but it’s probably a good idea (and cheaper, in the case of possible fees) to purchase a roll of yellow caution tape to stretch across each end of the road instead. You shouldn’t block the ends of the street with vehicles in case an emergency vehicle needs to get by quickly.
If you plan to serve alcohol, you should designate a spot – someone’s garage or back yard, for example – in which to serve and consume it. Most cities have ordinances stating that alcohol can only be consumed on private property; the permit will usually outline such rules. Plus, some people may not be comfortable having their children at a function where alcohol is being served, so do it in a place that’s away from the rest of the party, and don’t allow anyone under twenty-one (or eighteen, like at a bar) to be in the area.