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SITE NAVIGATION

Entertainment Services Division

Special Events

Entertainment Services Division

Special Events

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Photo Credit: Downtown Sacramento Partnership

The City of Sacramento's Special Event Services division facilitates the permitting process for events held on public property. This includes managing applications, coordinating with various city departments, and ensuring events comply with local regulations to promote safety and community engagement.

Do I need a permit?

A Special Event Permit is required for events held on public property in Sacramento, such as parks, streets, or plazas. This includes festivals, parades, races, and large gatherings. If your event involves public spaces, amplified sound, street closures, or large crowds, you will need this permit.

How to apply

To obtain a Special Event Permit in the City of Sacramento, follow these steps:

Review the Permit Requirements -

Begin by reviewing all requirements for holding a special event on public property. Consider elements such as expected attendance, use of amplified sound, need for street closures, or on-site food and beverage services.

Complete the Special Event Permit Application -

Download and fill out the Special Event Permit Application (PDF). Provide detailed information about your event, including location, time, estimated attendance, and any public services you may require.

Submit Your Application -

Submit the completed application at least 60 days prior to your proposed event date. You can email the application to specialeventservices@cityofsacramento.org, or submit it in person or by mail to:

Coloma Community Center

4623 T Street, Suite B, Sacramento, CA 95819

(Center open M-F 9am-4pm)

Receive Assignment to a Special Event Representative -

Once submitted, a Special Event Representative will contact you to guide you through the remaining steps. They will help determine what additional documents or approvals you may need.

Meet All Additional Requirements -

Depending on your event, you may need to submit further documentation, such as:

Site maps
Insurance certificates
Security plans
Tent/fire permits
Parking or street closure requests

Pay Required Fees -

After your application is reviewed, you will receive a fee estimate. Fees must be paid before the permit is issued.

Submit Final Documents -

All required documents, insurance, permits, and payment must be submitted no later than 10 days before your event date.

Receive Final Approval and Permit Issuance -

Once all requirements are met and approvals are obtained, you will receive your official Special Event Permit.

Requirements and guidelines

Insurance: Provide a Certificate of Insurance with a minimum of $1 million in commercial general liability coverage, naming the City as an additional insured. Noise Limits: Adhere to city noise ordinances; amplified sound may require additional permits. Security Plans: Depending on event size and nature, a security plan may be required, potentially involving coordination with the Sacramento Police Department. Waste Management: Events must provide garbage and recycling services, with co-located waste containers. Tent Permits: If using tents, submit a Tent Permit Application 14 business days prior to the event. Parking Restrictions: For events affecting parking, follow the Temporary “Tow Away No Parking” Posting Guidelines, ensuring signs are posted at least 72 hours in advance.

Fees

Fees vary based on event specifics, including size, location, and required city services. These may include application fees, park rental fees, and costs for city staff support. Fees are quoted after application review.

For more information, contact Special Event Services (916) 808-7888 or specialeventservices@cityofsacramento.org.

Processing time

Application Submission: At least 60 days before the event but no more than one year in advance of the event.

Permit Issuance: Varies based on event complexity; low-impact events may take a few weeks, while complex events may take several months.

Final Requirements: All documents and fees must be submitted at least 10 days prior to the event.

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