Events that need a permit
You must apply for a Special Event permit on all public, city-owned, and private property where the event will affect public safety and city services. You must complete a Special Event application if you have any of the following activities at your event:
- 50+ people
- Alcohol
- Animals
- Athletic events (5Ks/running events or walkathons)
- Rental of city facilities
- Drones
- Event advertisement signs
- Film production
- Food vendors
- Noise
- Parking
- Road and/or sidewalk closures
- Retail sales
- Special effects
- Temporary structures
- Temporary utilities
- Traffic control
- Waste and recycling
Events that do not need a permit:
Small events like birthday parties and community celebrations that occur at a public park and will not affect city services do not need a special event permit. The City of Gainesville has wonderful parks that are in high demand. It is highly recommended that you reserve facilities (for a fee) or arrive early when the park opens to “claim” a spot.
Reserve a park or facility