Reservations, Deposits & Payment
Reservations will be confirmed upon receipt of a signed contract and a 50-percent non-refundable deposit of venue rental fee. Payment is due in full at least 30 days prior to the event at the zoo and seven days prior for Café Brauer. All payments should be made payable to Lincoln Park Zoo.

Policies and Procedures
Pets and other animals may not be brought onto zoo grounds or Café Brauer. All guests must remain in areas designated for the public and must remain outside of guardrails at exhibits. Animals must not be fed. In the best interest of the animals, it may be necessary to substitute locations at the last minute and/or cancel special options.

Decorations
Patrons may supply their own banners and signs provided that such items conform to all building, fire and other applicable codes and regulations, and are free-standing without attachment to vents, windows, ceilings and floors. In addition, no decorations or objects are allowed beyond exhibit barriers. Balloons are not allowed. Fog and smoke machines are not allowed. Confetti, rice, and birdseed are not allowed. Only votive or other enclosed candles are allowed.

Tent Rental
Tent set-up may take place as early as 6 a.m. the day before the event and must be removed the morning after the event. Tent set-up must not impede normal operations or alter or damage any existing plantings, shrubbery, trees, light fixtures or signage.

Conduct of Event
The patron assumes full responsibility for the conduct of all persons attending the event and for any damage done to any part of the zoo premises or exhibit buildings or Café Brauer during any time the premises are under the control of patron or patron’s guests, agents, invitees, employees, or independent contractors employed by patron, including, but not limited to, caterers and entertainers. The patron must conduct the event in an orderly manner in full compliance with all applicable laws, codes, rules and regulations. The patron is liable for any damages to equipment and facilities provided by Lincoln Park Zoo or Café Brauer.

Suppliers/Vendors

We strongly suggest that you use vendors from our Approved Vendor List. In forming the list, we took into consideration those vendors who have repeatedly been suggested by employees and customers of Lincoln Park Zoo for Lincoln Park Zoo events. All of the vendors on our list are also licensed by the city and state where necessary, and have provided Lincoln Park Zoo with the appropriate certificates of insurance. Further, each is familiar with Lincoln Park Zoo's setting, configuration, features and requirements, and with our policies and guidelines.

The use of an outside vendor is allowed only at the discretion of Lincoln Park Zoo management. Anyone wishing to use an outside vendor must submit the name and contact information of the vendor to Lincoln Park Zoo at least 60 days before the event.

Storage facilities are not provided for events. All items used in conjunction with events must be brought on the day of the event and immediately removed after the event. Any additional electrical needs including microphones, sound systems, etc., will need to be secured from an approved supplier. Enhanced lighting plans will need to be approved at least two weeks prior to the event.