Special Events
A Special Event Permit is required for an organized activity that incorporates the use of:
- City public streets, sidewalks, rights-of-way; and/or
- City public parks or other City public property; and/or
- Outdoor private property including parking lots, only when the property is part of a Special Event Venue that includes City public property and permission has been received by the property owner/manager (for example, a parking lot used as part of a street festival venue).
Examples of activities that require a Special Event Permit include events that have more then 75 participants, such as festivals, parades, runs/walks, and farmer/art markets.
Permit application processing fees are applicable by category of permit. Please apply 60 days or more prior to the event day to avoid the late filing fee.
RESOURCE: Refer to Quick Look Checklist – Special Event Permit Fees
Applications submitted 60 days prior to an event will be accepted without a late fees. However, events that are less than 60 days out and do not have an application already submitted must receive approval from the Special Events Coordinator to submit a late application.
Please email [email protected] to request approval to submit a late application within 60 days of an event. NOTE: We recommend that you submit the Special Event permit application 90 days prior to the proposed event date.
If a CalTrans Encroachment permit to close Hwy 29/Sonoma Blvd. is needed, a minimum of 120 days prior to the event date is required.
The Special Event Guideline is an important reference guide as you develop your event planning timeline and complete your permit application.
OTHER SPECIAL EVENT RELATED PERMITS
There are a number of different special event related permits that may be issued independent of a Citywide Special Event Permit or may be required in conjunction with a Citywide Special Event Permit. The proposed event venue, activities, components, attendance, and unique circumstances of the event are contributing factors to the final determination of the required permit types.