Special Event Permitting

Special Event Permit Application

All Special Event permit applications are due 90 days in advance

1. Make sure you have contacted the Parks and Recreation office at 775-657-4654 to reserve your park prior to submitting your application.
2. Create an account
3. Once created, you will need to log in
4. At the top, select “Business Licensing and Events”
5. Select “Create an Application by Agency”
6. Click the drop down for “Licenses”
7. Select “Special Event Permit Permits”
8. Complete the application and submit payment
   • All required documentation must be uploaded directly to your permit application.  If you do not have all required documentation at the time you are submitting, you will need to log back in to edit your application within the required timelines for all document submissions.
   • All permit applications must be paid upfront at the time of submission to be eligible for review.
   • A Fire Inspection fee is required. Anytime a public space is being used for an event, RFD must come out for an inspection to ensure public safety.

• Certificate of Insurance – Due 30 days prior to event
  • Insurance Requirements
• Site Map – Due one week prior to your meeting with the Special Event Review Committee
  • Site maps MUST include vendor names at exact placement location and/or a numbered site map with a corresponding “key” to easily identify vendor placement.
• Neighborhood Notification – Due 30 days prior to event
• Vendor List – Due 14 days prior to event
• Alcohol Catering License Number – Due 30 days prior to event

It is recommended that you upload your vendor list with any vendors that you have at the time you submit your application. All vendors must be uploaded to your permit application a minimum of 14 days prior to your event.  We do not accept PDFs or emailed vendor lists.

If you are unable to submit your vendor list at the time you submit your application, you will need edit your application to add your vendors confirmed.

• Login to your Accela account
• Locate your permit application
  • Go to "My Records"
  • Select "Business Licensing and Events"
• Select “Amendment” to modify your application
• Click to Tab 3 "Event Lists" to the vendor page to add your vendors
  • Note:  You will need the business license numbers for your vendors.  You will enter their business license number (Rxxxxx-LIC) to auto-populate the business name and address.  If your vendor does not have a valid City of Reno business license you will need to obtain a $20 daily vendor permit on their behalf.

If you have any issues being able to edit your permit application, please email events@reno.gov for support.

The City of Reno is committed to being a city for everyone - where individuals with disabilities have equal opportunity and meaningful access to resources, programs, and events. 

Accessibility Events Guide PDF

The Low Waste Guide is filled with best practices for waste prevention, reduction, diversion strategies, and information utilizing existing resources in the community. The Guide is intended to serve as a mentoring document and a launching point for new ideas and suggestions to reduce waste and mitigate the collective impact events have on the natural environment.

Special Events Waste Reduction Guide PDF

At the City of Reno, we are committed to protecting the environment and minimizing the impact of special events on the surrounding community and natural resources.

Environmental Control Special Event Acknowledgement Form PDF

Before you finalize your event plans, please review the City’s Noise Ordinance. The ordinance establishes allowable sound levels for amplified sound, both with and without a permit. 

Planning your event with this ordinance in mind helps you avoid fines, neighbor complaints, and last‑minute program changes.

City of Reno Parks and Recreation Noise Ordinance

Complete this Mobile Vending Application to be considered for participation at City of Reno events. Submission does not guarantee acceptance; all vendors must meet licensing, insurance, and event guidelines.

Mobile Vending Application PDF

To ensure the safety and protection of all event participants, organizers, and the public, The City of Reno requires that all permitted special events provide proof of insurance coverage.

This document outlines the minimum insurance requirements, coverage limits, and documentation needed to secure your event permit. Please review carefully and ensure compliance prior to submitting your final permit application.

Special Events Permit Insurance Requirements PDF

The Believe Sculpture Lighting FAQ outlines the process, requirements, and guidelines event organizers must follow to request and coordinate custom lighting displays. Please review the steps carefully to ensure your request can be accommodated and to help us preserve the integrity of the sculpture and surrounding space.

Believe Sculpture Lighting FAQ PDF

As part of the special event permitting process, event organizers are required to notify residents and businesses near the event site of any potential impacts, including road closures, parking restrictions, noise, or changes in public access.

This form helps document your outreach efforts and ensures our community stays informed and engaged. Please complete and submit the form along with your permit application.

Neighborhood Notification Form PDF

Daily Vendor Permits are needed any time you have a vendor that is selling goods and does not have a valid City of Reno Business License (Rxxxx-LIC). Daily Vendor Permits are $20 per vendor and this fee is billed directly to the promoter hosting the event. Non-Profits are exempt from needing Daily Vendor Permits.

Before submitting your application, please check with Parks and Recreation to confirm park and plaza availability. This step ensures your preferred location is open for your event and helps streamline the approval process.

To contact Parks and Recreation:

Mark Sanders 

Email - sandersm@reno.gov

Phone - 775-657-4654