Block Party Guide!

Step By Step Guide

Based on official guidelines from the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT)

Step 1: Make Sure Your Event Qualifies

Before anything else, confirm your event fits the Block Party program. The event must be free and open to the general public — private events are NOT allowed. [Portland.gov](https://www.portland.gov/transportation/permitting/portland-streets/learn-about-block-party-permits)

Your block party also cannot exceed these thresholds, or it will need a different (Community Event) permit:

  • Attendance expected to exceed 100 people at any time
  • More than one permitted food vendor
  • Alcohol sales or consumption on the street
  • Events associated with a for-profit or nonprofit business/organization
  • Closure exceeding two blocks
  • Closure on an arterial street or metered area

Source: https://www.portland.gov/transportation/permitting/portland-streets/learn-about-block-party-permits

Step 2: Check Your Street Classification

All streets in North Tabor are “Local Service Traffic” classification except: 47th, 60th, Glisan, and Burnside. So more likely than not, you’re good to go.

Step 3: Talk to Your Neighbors

Talk to their neighbors before applying for a permit. This helps with scheduling and ensures you’re not conflicting with any construction or other event that might bring extra vehicles to your block.

The city provides a notification flyer template (https://www.portland.gov/transportation/permitting/documents/block-party-flier/download) you can print and distribute, or you can create your own. A copy of your flyer must be included in your application before submission.

Step 4: Apply for Your Free Permit

Applications should be submitted at least 15 business days before your event. The good news: **the permit is free.**

Apply online at: https://www.portland.gov/transportation/permitting/portland-streets/apply-block-party-permit

Questions? Contact the PBOT Block Party team at **pbotblockparty@portlandoregon.gov** or **503-823-4003**.

**New in 2026:** PBOT now allows community-focused organizations — such as neighborhood associations, to apply as the permittee. If you would like to have us help with the permitting, let us know, events@northtabor.org

Step 5: Know the Time & Size Rules

Street closures are limited to 8 hours per week (not to exceed 8 hours total within 7 consecutive days) between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. This is inclusive of any setup or cleanup time.

Block parties may span up to 2 blocks, but intersections must remain open.

Step 6: Notify Neighbors Before the Event

Once a permit has been applied for, you are required to notify all residents on the block(s) at least two days before the permit starts.

Step 7: Set Up Barricades Correctly

Your permit will include a detailed traffic control plan. Here are the key rules:

  • At both ends of your closure, install barricades 3–6 feet apart.
  • Place barricades out of marked and unmarked crosswalks so people can still cross safely.
  • If your block is adjacent to an arterial street, you must use Type 3 barricades (rented from a private vendor).
  • If not adjacent to an arterial street, you may use Type 2 barricades or household items such as personal trash bins or furniture — but only during daylight hours.
  • Closures past dusk require traffic control devices with retro-reflectivity and flashing lights.

Step 8: Consider Amplified Music & Noise

If your block party will include amplified music, you will need to obtain a noise permit from the City of Portland Bureau of Development Services. [Npnscommunity](https://npnscommunity.org/solutions/block-parties/) Contact Noise Control at **503-823-7350**.

Quick Reference Checklist

  • ✅ Check street classification | Must be “Local Service Traffic”
  • ✅ Apply for permit | At least 15 business days in advance
  • ✅ Permit cost | Free
  • ✅ Hours allowed | 9 a.m. – 9 p.m., max 8 hrs/week
  • ✅ Max size | Up to 2 blocks; intersections stay open
  • ✅ Notify neighbors | At least 2 days before the event
  • ✅ Barricades | Required at both ends of closure
  • ✅ Amplified music | Separate noise permit required
  • ✅ Event must be | Free and open to the public

—

Allowing Bike Traffic Through a Portland Block Party

Designate a Bike Lane or Corridor

  • Designate a Bike Lane or Corridor
    • Mark a clear path (typically along one side of the street) with chalk, cones, or rope barriers that guides cyclists through the closure zone.
    • Keep it at least 4–5 feet wide — enough for a bike plus a little buffer.
    • Make sure the path is free of tables, chairs, and other obstacles.
  • Signal the Route Clearly
    • Post simple hand-lettered signs at each barricade that say something like “Bikes — Slow Through” with an arrow.
    • Use bright chalk markings on the pavement to trace the path.
    • Station a volunteer or two at the entry points to wave cyclists through and alert partygoers.
  • Set Expectations with Partygoers
    • Mention the bike corridor in your neighbor notification flyer.
    • Ask a volunteer to periodically walk the corridor and clear any chairs or kids who’ve drifted into it.
    • Encourage guests to keep an eye out and step aside when a bike comes through.
  • Design the Party Layout Around It
    • Place food tables, games, and seating toward the center or one side of the street, leaving the other side open.
    • Avoid anchoring bounce houses or large items in the travel path.
  • Consider a “Slow Zone” Approach
    • Rather than a strict separated lane, you could simply make cyclists aware they’re welcome to walk their bike through the party at a slow pace.
    • This is especially practical for very short closures or narrow streets where a dedicated lane isn’t feasible.
Share