Official Website of the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation

Parks Special Event Permit Request

From the smallest birthday party to the largest concert, special events take place every day in New York City parks. We're here to help make your event happen! Before you hold your next event, find out what you need to know to make it run smoothly.

When Do I Need A Permit?

Our Special Event Permits reserve part of a park for your event. Permits may be needed for anything from birthday parties to celebrations to volunteer clean-ups.

We require a permit for any event with more than 20 attendees. But no matter how many people you expect to attend, getting a permit makes sense if:

You don't want another group to reserve the space you want.
You want to make sure there's no work planned in the park while you hold your event.
You want to sell items or use commercial signage, use a generator, or use amplified sound.
You want to put up temporary structures, such as tents, stages, or inflatable structures.
You are using a facility that requires permits from another city agency, such as a building or a street.

Getting Started

We know every event is different! If this is your first time applying, or if your event is growing or changing in size, take a look at some common event types below to see if there's a category that matches your request. We'll help clarify what you need to provide, and tell you about the process to make your event a success.

Have a specific question? Check out our Special Event Permit Guide for more details, or check below for answers to common requests.

Common Event Types

Basic Events

Events for a small group, such as a birthday party, field day, or any event with only a few elements.

Events With Vendors or On-Site Sales

Events where vendors are selling items or where revenue is generated on parkland.

Large Events

If you are proposing an event with many elements, or your event is growing in size or scope.

Weddings in the Parks

Find out more about how you can spend your special day in the parks.

When to Apply

Please make sure you apply at least 21 days before the event takes place. We will not accept an application that's fewer than 21 days out from the event.

We recommend applying as far in advance as possible, especially if your event has many pieces to it. You will not be allowed to advertise your event until the permit is approved, so please take that into account before you apply.

Applications for special event permits for the following calendar year will be accepted beginning on the first Tuesday following Labor Day in September.

Cost

Special Events permits cost $25 to process, and the fee cannot be waived (except when requesting an NYC Parks group volunteer project). This money is not refundable. Other event elements, such as sound, tents, and signage may involve additional fees.

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Setting Up Your Account

If you've never held an event with us before, you may have to create an account to get started. If you have already created an account with the Street Activity Permit Office or Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment you do not need to create a new account.

Common Special Event Topics

Sometimes, subject to our review, additional permits from other agencies are needed before you can host your event. You can check our Guide for details, or look for information below.

Parks Special Event Permit Request

Important Message

When Do I Need A Permit?