APPLY FOR A PERMIT

Ensuring Safe Events on the Waterway

The Fox Waterway Agency (FWA) encourages responsible recreational use of the waterways while maintaining safety, navigability, and public access. To support this mission, the FWA Board issues Waterway Restriction Permits for organized events that temporarily impact normal waterway traffic. Permitted Events include, but are not limited to, boat races, regattas, fishing derbies, promotional boating events, and other recreational activities designed for public enjoyment.

By requiring permits, we can coordinate event logistics, communicate restrictions to the boating community, and ensure that all activities are conducted safely and in compliance with agency regulations. This process also helps protect wildlife, preserve natural resources, and maintain an enjoyable environment for all waterway users.

Applicants can use the form below to request a Waterway Restriction Permit.

Permit Process Instructions

The applicant is required to seek law enforcement notification and approval by submitting a copy of the WRP application and documents to the designated law enforcement agency for the location of the event.

This must be done within 7 days of submitting the application to the FWA. At this point, the application will go under FWA review. If buoys or staff time are required for the event a financial agreement will be prepared by the FWA and signed by the applicant.

Once these steps have been completed, the WRP will be placed on the next monthly board meeting agenda for approval. If the WRP gets approved by the FWA Board of Directors, proof of event insurance must be provided to the FWA, all fees must be paid in full, then the permit will be officially issued.

Special Conditions

WRP must be submitted no later than 60 days prior to the event date dates, some exceptions can be made depending on when application is submitted to Public Meeting.

All permit conditions must be met for approval.

Permit Application Checklist

  • Read the Hold Harmless Agreement

  • Enter all information in the form below

  • Map of event area that includes buoy location*

  • Insurance Policy showing FWA as additional insured, required minimum 10 days prior to event date*

  • Signed law enforcement documents*

  • Credit Card for online application payment

* If you have digital copies, you can upload them using the online application below. If you prefer to drop off or mail in the application and supporting documents, send to:

Fox Waterway Agency
Attn: Waterway Restriction Permit Application
45 S. Pistakee Lake Road
Fox Lake, IL 60020

Waterway Restriction Permit Application