Information for Outside Instructors

Due to safety measures in place during the COVID-19 pandemic, we are not currently issuing outside instructor permits.

The Chicago Botanic Garden does not allow programming and instruction to be held other than through the Joseph Regenstein, Jr. School of the Chicago Botanic Garden. If you wish to have a class session on Garden grounds, a permit can be purchased through the School's registration office by calling (847) 835-6801, or on-site at the Visitor Center Membership and Information desks for $125.

Permits are one-time use only. Multi-session classes require a permit for each day the class is held at the Garden.

If a permit is purchased, please be aware of the rules and guidelines below.

Restrictions:

  • Please do not enter flower beds, plant displays, or mulched areas. Remain on the pathways and grassy turf at all times.
  • No alcoholic beverages may be brought into the Garden.
  • Do not disturb or remove plants, plant labels, or containers.
  • Do not block the access to the entrance, pathways, or other Garden areas for use by others.

Note that the permit does not guarantee access to, or use of, any specific space at the Garden, and you must relocate should security or other Garden staff require it, for whatever reason.

For additional information about Garden rules and regulations, please visit our Garden Etiquette page. Also note that parking fees apply for nonmembers.

We welcome the opportunity to discuss teaching opportunities in collaboration with any of our existing education programs.

Visitors and individual artists are always welcome to photograph, paint, sketch, and draw on garden grounds during normal business hours.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Beth Pinargote, adult education director, at Click here to show mail address or (847) 835-6801.