GOV
Special Event Permit
Permitting process for holding an event open to the public and taking place on public property in the City of St. Louis, such as a parade, run and/or walk, cycling race or ride, festival, street fair or outdoor concert.
Overview
Depending on the size and scope of your event, a special event permit can involve multiple City departments, including the Street Department, the Building Division, the Health Department, the Parks Department, Fire, Police and others.
The Office of Special Events understands your organizational needs and the needs of these departments, and will help guide you through the process.
Events Requiring a Special Event Permit
Events that are open to the public, utilize any part of public property (streets, sidewalks or parks), and have ONE OR MORE of the following components must complete the special event permitting process:
- food
- liquor
- street closures
- tents
- staging
- generators
Events Not Requiring a Special Event Permit
The following types of events do not require a special event permit:
- Events located entirely on private property.
- Residential block parties - a residential, neighbors-only, social gathering, not affiliated with any special event or commercial establishment.
- Private events (weddings, family reunions, etc.) in a City park.
Special Event Policies
Before applying for a special event permit, check the list of policies below and read the ones that are relevant to your event.
For your special event permit applications to be considered, applications must be submitted no later than 30 days in advance of your event.
Requirements for All Special Event Permits
Events open to the public that utilize public property (streets/parks) require special event permits. All special events must meet these requirements.
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Fire Policies for Special Events
Policies for propane usage, pyrotechnics (fireworks) and emergency equipment and medical services at special events.
Food Sales and Service Policies for Special Events
Policies for food sales and service at public events, including vendor permits, sanitation and restroom policies.
Generator Policies for Special Events
Special event policies for generator suppliers and leasers.
Liquor Sales and Service Policies for Special Events
Policies for liquor sales and service at public events, for nonprofits and businesses with existing liquor licenses.
Parks Policies for Special Events
Policies for holding public events in City parks.
Safety and Security Policies for Special Events
Security policies for special events. Events with alcohol and events with more than 500 attendees are required to have security onsite.
Street Permit Policies for Special Events
A street permit is needed for any event that requires use of any part of a street or sidewalk, including designating curb lanes for special parking/no parking.
Tent and Temporary Structure Policies for Special Events
Requirements for permitting all tents, temporary stages, platforms, reviewing stands, bleachers and event structures for special events.
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Contact
Office of Special Events
(314) 589-6640
1200 Market Street,
Room 416 City Hall
St. Louis, MO 63103
8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday
Other Contacts
- For events on the Arch grounds, contact the National Park Service, Park Permits Office, (314) 655-1613.
- For residential block party permits, see Residential Block Party Permits.
- For private events in a City park, contact the Parks Department.
