Do you have a Chicago photo location in mind for your engagement shoot or wedding portraits? It’s best to check this list first to confirm you are in compliance with photo permit guidelines with the City of Chicago or the private ownership. We were not aware of the change in permit policies until, in August 2019, when we were stopped by Chicago Park District staff at Lurie Gardens while we were shooting wedding portraits. The City of Chicago is enforcing photo permits at locations under its management. This comprehensive guide is beneficial for anyone interested in having their wedding, engagement and family portraits photographed at Chicagoland’s landmarks, parks and hotels.

Millennium Park // Chicago Lurie Gardens

Millennium Park encompasses Chicago Lurie Garden, Cloud Gate, Jay Pritzker Pavillion, The BP Bridge and Crown Fountain. In order to shoot anywhere on these premises, you must acquire a photo and film permit.

Address: 201 E Randolph Street Chicago, IL 60602

Permit Fee: $25 for non-commercial photography (weddings, engagements, portraits)

As of July 1, 2019, all professional photographers at Lurie Garden must have permit. Drones are not permitted at all. You may not ever step into the garden beds, no matter the time of year. You may not stand on the stone walls. You may not block any walkway or ask visitors not to use the walkways. Permits are non-transferable. Refunds will not be granted for inclement weather.

Hours of Operation: 6am-11pm (Check website for any special event or holiday hours)

Phone: (312) 744-6050

Permit Application Contact: Darlene Rodriguez // drodriguez@mbres.com

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Chicago Union Station

If you like to incorporate some of Chicago’s iconic architectural locations, consider Union Station for your wedding portraits. But before you start planning, contact the management office for a photography permit!

Address: 255 South Canal Street, Chicago, Illinois 60606

Permit Fee: $150

Photo and film permits must be obtained at least 48 hours prior to the photography date.  Fees can be paid and permits can be obtained during business hours at 500 W. Jackson Blvd., Suite 107, Chicago IL 60661.

Hours of Operation: Open 7 days a week. Closed from 1am to 5am.

Phone: (312) 655-2524

Permit Application: Application Link

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Garfield Park Conservatory

Address: 300 N. Central Park Ave. Chicago, IL 60624

Permit Fee: $35 for application fee plus $45 per location and date.

Hours of Operation: 9 am – 5 pm

Phone: 312-763-6713

Permit Application: Application website

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Lincoln Park Zoo/ South Pond Nature Boardwalk

Address: 2001 N Clark Street Chicago, IL 60614

Permit Fee: $125 for non-commercial shoots such as weddings, portraits, engagements.

Hours of Operation: 9am to 5pm

Phone: (312) 742-2000

Permit Application: Application Link

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Lincoln Park Conservatory

Address: 2391 N Stockton Dr, Chicago, IL 60614

Permit Fee: $35 application fee plus $45 per location and date

Hours of Operation: 9am to 5pm

Phone: (312) 742-7736

Permit Application: Application Link

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Maggie Daley Park // Cancer Survivors Garden

Address: 337 E. Randolph St., Chicago, Illinois 60601

Permit Fee: $25 for non-commercial photography (weddings, engagements, portraits)

Hours of Operation: 9am to 5pm

Phone: 312-744-6415

Permit Application Contact: Darlene Rodriguez // drodriguez@mbres.com