Most city services can be requested via the City of Chicago's 311 system. Residents may submit service requests by calling 311, online, via the free mobile application CHI311, or by calling our office for assistance.

+ How do I send the 1st Ward Office a service request?

The 1st Ward Office accepts service requests in-person (1958 N. Milwaukee; open Mon-Fri, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.), over the phone (872) 206-2685, and via our online service request form.

+ What type of construction work is being done on my block?

You can view most permits online via ChiStreetWork. If you can't find what you're looking for, please reach out to our office.

+ How do I get a block party permit?

The 1st Ward requires that anyone who wants to host a block party collect signatures of approval from 50% of the affected block. You can find our signature collection form here.

Each year, the city provides a limited amount of free bouncy houses for residential block parties. Bouncy houses are available on a first-come-first-served basis. Learn more about the Jumping Jack Program here.

+ How do I get a garage sale permit?

Fill out the application and bring it along with a proof of residency (lease, property tax bill, ID, etc.) to the 1st Ward Office where staff will review.

+ How do I request a bike rack near my home, school, or business?

To request new bike racks, please submit a request for bike parking to the Department of transportation.

+ Developers will not stop contacting me about selling my home, is there anything I can do?

The City of Chicago Municipal Code outlaws predatory behavior by developers. If you do not want to sell your property, you can tell a developer "No," and tell them that you do not wish for any further contact. If they continue to call, e-mail, visit, or otherwise bother you after you told them to stop contacting you, you can lodge a complaint with the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection. Select 'Predatory Real Estate Developer Tactics'.

You can also contact our office to fill out the complaint for you. Please provide name of the developer, development group and any relevant documents (letters that were sent in the mail, screen shots of phone calls, forwarded emails, etc.).

+ A garbage truck keeps waking me up before 7 a.m., how do I get them to stop picking up so early?

The Chicago Noise ordinance prohibits trucks from picking up trash before 7:00 a.m. In many cases, companies violating the ordinance are private contractors. While we recommend that you call 911 to seek enforcement of the noise ordinance, you can also submit a 311 Noise Complaint for persistent early pick-up.

+ I am concerned with traffic and pedestian safety on my street, how can we improve traffic safety for everyone?

Our office is committed to ensuring our streets are safe for bicylists, pedestrians, and our children. If you want to request a new street sign, changing a speed limit, new street paint, bump outs, or other traffic calming measures, plese reach out to our office.

+ How can I help a neighbor experiencing homelessness?

You can always start by introducing yourself and asking the individual what they need-whether that be food, a warm place to sleep or health services. Depending on the individual's needs, there are a number of different options to take. For emergency services and outreach, you can call 311 and ask for a crisis referral or shelter request. You can also always call the 1st Ward office to discuss what options might be best given the individual's needs.