Event permits

We review Special Event permit applications to make sure your event on a city street(s) will be safe, secure, and accessible for everyone.

Apply for a permit through the Recreation and Parks Department for an event of any size that’s in a city park.

The Port has parks, buildings, and public spaces available to host all sizes of events.

TIDA issues Use Permits for all special events and professional film/photo production activities on Treasure and Yerba Buena Islands.

There is a separate permit process to host an event within the Golden Gate Recreation Area and other national parks in San Francisco.

Understand the steps to hosting an indoor temporary event or pop-up in San Francisco.

Learn the steps to host a small, one-block event on a residential street with no Muni activity. You can’t sell anything at this type of event or use it to promote a business.

Whether a street fair, night market, festival, or concert, learn how to host a multi-block public event on a San Francisco street.

San Francisco’s Entertainment Zones (EZ) are areas where the public can buy and drink alcoholic beverages to-go during certain hours. Learn how to create and host events in an EZ.

Understand the rules to operate and organize vendors at a farmers market in San Francisco.

To keep your parade safe and accessible, you will need to coordinate with multiple City agencies, like the Police, local transit, Fire Department, and more. Start with the Police Department. If you are planning to gather or to finish a parade at an outdoor location, you also need a permit for that location.

You need a film permit to shoot a production for commercial or non-commercial use. If you're filming in a park, you will need a permit from the Recreation and Parks Department.

Learn the steps to host a small, one-block event on a residential street with no Muni activity. You can’t sell anything at this type of event or use it to promote a business.

We review special event permit applications and materials to make sure your event will be safe, secure, and accessible for everyone.

Fire safety at outdoor special event is essential. This page outlines the requirements and guidelines for using tents and other structures, cooking and heating food, and portable generators.

Ensure you have the right permits to serve and sell food at your event.

The One Time Outdoor Event permit is for an outdoor event with entertainment/amplified sound.

Understand recycling, composting, and waste requirements for special events.

All event organizers should consider how to keep the event and attendees safe. Events with over 500 attendees must submit a formal security plan.

Every outdoor event is unique and the total cost will vary widely.

If you are organizing an event requiring City approval, you may be required to carry liability insurance to cover costs for damage or injuries that may occur during the event.

Watch a video recording of a February 2026 webinar to learn about getting the right permits to sell or serve food at a special event.