Do I Need a Moving Truck Permit in Evanston?

Do I Need a Moving Truck Permit in Evanston?

Last updated: October 2026

For a moving truck, Evanston's permit isn't mandatory, but it reserves the curb space you'll want. For a storage container in the public right-of-way, the permit is mandatory. Either way, apply at least 10 business days ahead. We'll walk you through it when you book.

Evanston streets can be tight, especially near downtown and around the courtyard buildings. Without reserved space, a truck may have to park down the block, and on an hourly move, a longer carry means a longer day. That's why the permit is worth it on a lot of Evanston blocks.

The Moving Vehicle and Storage Container Permit

The City of Evanston handles both moving trucks and storage containers under one permit. One form.

For moving trucks. The permit reserves public parking or right-of-way space for loading and unloading, so the truck doesn't block traffic. It's not mandatory if you don't want to reserve space.

For storage containers. The permit is mandatory for placing a container in the public right-of-way. Space can't be allocated for more than three consecutive weeks.

How far ahead to apply

Submit the application no less than 10 business days before the date you need. Approval is first-come, first-served through the city's Public Works Agency. In busy seasons, earlier is better. Much better.

How the space gets reserved

The city does it.

Once a permit is approved, city personnel set up a No Parking Zone. In the regular parking lane, that happens at least 48 hours before the approved date. In metered zones, the area is set aside at least 2 hours before the approved time.

How to apply

The city takes applications through an online form. After approval, you'll receive an email with payment options, and the permit is issued once payment is processed. For questions, the city's Capital Planning and Engineering team handles permit applications.

Storage containers

If a container company is providing the container, the city requires a certificate of insurance from that company naming the City of Evanston as additional insured. Let the container company know. If you're using a container, we load and unload all kinds of trucks, PODS, and storage units. Read do you load rental trucks and PODS.

Buildings with their own rules

Many Evanston apartment and condo buildings have their own requirements, like elevator reservations or a certificate of insurance from the mover. We send COIs for free, usually the same day your building sends its requirements. Read when will I receive the COI.

Winter moves

Evanston has its own snow parking rules. Read what happens if it snows on my Evanston moving day.

Northwestern season

Late August through mid-September is a busy moving window in Evanston. If you're moving then, apply for the permit early. Read can you handle Northwestern move-in season.

Pricing

Evanston moves are hourly, with a 2-hour minimum. Moving companies in the Chicago area charge at least one hour for travel. The city permit is separate from our pricing.

For more on Evanston, read Evanston movers, moving to or from the North Shore's front door.

Permits are covered on our Evanston movers page, alongside our moving services.

Call (773) 275-4100 or email info@wcmoving.com, and tell us your address.