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![\"Article-Small-Business-Graphic.jpg\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/article-small-business-graphic.jpg\" "\\"Article-Small-Business-Graphic.jpg\\"\/")
<\/p>\nPublished on April 09, 2026<\/p>\n
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By Cynthia Lemus, Office of Communication<\/p>\n
As Arlington prepares to host nine matches during the FIFA World Cup 2026\u2122, City leaders are helping local businesses get ready to make the most of this global opportunity \u2014 while staying safe and compliant.<\/p>\n
In the latest episode of \u201cArlington Welcomes the World,\u201d City experts shared key guidance on permits, planning and business readiness ahead of the tournament.<\/p>\n
Ariel Wurster, Assistant Building Official with Planning & Development Services, said businesses should begin planning now, especially if they are considering expanding operations outside of their buildings.<\/p>\n
\u201cAny time we have outdoor activations \u2014 tents, pop-ups or temporary structures \u2014 businesses will likely need a temporary outdoor event permit or special event permit,\u201d Wurster said.<\/p>\n
The City has implemented temporary limitations related to temporary outdoor events and special events in parts of the Entertainment District on the day before and the day of matches to support public safety and ensure emergency services can operate efficiently. Permits will be limited during the designated dates in the area bounded by N. Center Street\/Lincoln Drive, E. Lamar Boulevard, Ballpark Way\/Stadium Drive, and E. Division Street(PDF,\u00a0554KB)<\/a>. See Special Event Permits<\/a> website.<\/p>\n \u201cThe reasoning behind limiting additional events is to ensure that our critical city services such as fire, police and public works can safely service those events,\u201d Wurster said.<\/p>\n Health and safety will also play a critical role as Arlington welcomes an influx of visitors. Aimee Rockhill, Health Services Manager, emphasized the importance of preparation and maintaining strong food safety practices.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is really our restaurants\u2019 time to shine on the world stage,\u201d Rockhill said. \u201cWe want to make sure that we\u2019re establishing a strong food safety culture prior to the event.\u201d<\/p>\n Rockhill encouraged businesses to ensure staff are properly trained and to plan ahead for increased demand, including managing food storage and minimizing delivery disruptions.<\/p>\n City officials stressed that while the opportunity is significant, preparation is key.<\/p>\n Kay Brown-Patrick, assistant director of the Arlington Economic Development Corporation, said the City\u2019s Game Plan<\/a> guide was created to help businesses take practical steps to succeed.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Game Plan removes the guesswork\u2026 so that businesses are prepared to show up competitive and confident,\u201d Brown-Patrick said.<\/p>\n She added that businesses should think beyond day-to-day operations and prepare for a global audience.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is not business as usual,\u201d she said. \u201cDemand is going to be different.\u201d<\/p>\n From staffing and inventory to customer flow and payment options, the City is encouraging businesses to plan early and take advantage of available resources.<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t wait. Prepare now,\u201d Brown-Patrick said. \u201cThis is your opportunity to think big.\u201d<\/p>\n