Having a block party is a fun way to get to know your neighborhood. The first step in having a great party is to discuss the idea with your neighbors. If enough people seem interested, then contact the Street and Traffic Division at (816) 513-2777 or download the block party permit, which is required to legally close the street. There is no fee for the permit. Applications are also available on the 23rd floor of City Hall.

Once you have the permit issued, use the following tips to your party a success.

Plan ahead who will be responsible for getting the traffic cones to block off your street. Acceptable barricades are cones, barrels or sawhorses - do not use cars as barricades. You may use Street and Traffic Division's equipment, which requires a deposit of $30 (checks only) made out to the City Treasurer. The check is returned when the cones are returned. Cones are available from these sites by calling one day in advance:

• Traffic Operations at 5310 Municipal Ave., (816) 513-9300
• Northland Neighborhood Inc., 5312 Chouteau Trafficway, (816) 454-2000

Please bring your permit with you. These facilities are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cones will only be available at the Linwood site on Friday, noon until 5 p.m.

To invite the Fire Department to your party, call (816) 784-9999 with the time and date of your event.

To invite Police, call your local station:

• North Patrol, (816) 234-5540
• Central patrol, (816) 234-5510
• East Patrol, (816) 234-5530
• Metro Patrol, (816) 234-5520
• South Patrol, (816) 234-5550.

If you have questions about the application or permit process, contact the Street and Traffic Division at (816) 513-2777.