Parks and Recreation

Citywide Special Events Calendar

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Special Events

PLANNING AN EVENT IN THE CITY OF FRESNO

The City of Fresno is proud to have its residents and visitors host a multitude of community events that enhance the quality of life and contribute to the economic vitality of the City.

Permits may be required for an event 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
  • An event that is open to the public

In more general terms, permits are required if your event includes the closure of streets, sidewalks, alleys or other public spaces for any period of time. Examples of activities that require additional permits include festivals, parades, runs, walks, and farmers markets.

Permits are not required for the following (FMC 14-2404):

  • Parades, marches, walks, demonstrations and gatherings that take place on city sidewalks/crosswalks and other public property made available for Expressive Activity such as City Hall Grounds, where all participants fully comply with all laws.  If the organizer becomes aware the number of participants will exceed 50, s/he shall provide notice to the Chief of Police at least 48 hours in advance of the activity, or as soon as s/he becomes aware the event may exceed 50 people.  Activities otherwise exempt from a permit may be terminated and participants ordered to disperse by the Police if, after warning the participants and providing an opportunity to comply, participants are not in compliance with the provisions of this paragraph.
  • Spontaneous events which are prompted by news or events occurring less than 48 hours prior to the event may be conducted on public grounds of City Hall. If practicable, the organizer should give notice to the City Manager at least eight hours before the event informing the city of the date and time of the event, and the estimated number of participants.

Designated parade routes. There are often time and cost savings associated with using a designated route.  Designated routes specify the number of officers assigned for police and traffic control, and the cost associated therewith.

How do I begin?

Please submit a completed application at least sixty days prior to the event. Events using Designated Parade Routes must be submitted at least thirty days prior to the event. Events are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. Upon receiving your completed application, a representative from PARCS Event Services will contact you and serve as your primary point of contact during the processing of your request. This person will review your event information, determine whether the Event Review Board will need to review your event, and set your permit requirements and fees. Your representative will also serve as the liaison between the City department, regulatory agencies, and you, the event organizer.

Your completed application, fees, and any required attachments must be submitted:

In Person:

PARCS Event Services

1515 E. Divisadero Street
Fresno, CA  93721
Hours – Monday through Friday 8AM-5PM

By Email: [email protected]

What happens after I submit a completed application?

Your event will be reviewed by applicable City Departments. Upon review, if there are additional items that need to be addressed, staff will reach out to discuss these items further. 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. If the event requires Police, Fire, Public Works or other departmental services, a deposit and payment plan may be required prior to issuing a permit.

Please note that submittal of your application should in no way be construed as final approval from the City of Fresno.

Need assistance or have questions?

For more information please contact (559) 621-2916 or email [email protected]. On behalf of the City of Fresno, we thank you for contributing to the vitality of our community and offer you best wishes for a successful event!