Event Planning

Planning an event on public property in Asheville begins here. This page explains when permitting may be required, what organizers should prepare, and how to begin the public space inquiry process.

Do I Need a Permit?

A permit may be required for organized activities on public property, especially when an event involves a reserved public area, street or sidewalk closures, tents or other temporary structures, alcohol, open flame, business activity, or attendance over 49 in a manner inconsistent with normal property use. Common examples include festivals, concerts, block parties, parades, organized walks or races, and commercial filming or photography. The first step is to complete the Public Space Inquiry Form.

How to Get Started

To begin the process, complete the Public Space Inquiry Form. Public property event applications are accepted by invitation only, and there is no cost or firm commitment required to submit an inquiry. Before submitting, review the production calendar to see whether your preferred date or location may already be scheduled for another use.

Planning Ahead

Public property event applications follow specific inquiry, application, and deadline windows based on the event’s type and scale. Organizers are encouraged to start early, since missing a required deadline can result in cancellation of the permit process.

What to Prepare

Organizers should be ready to provide a completed application, a site plan or route map, and any additional materials required for the event’s type and scale. Common follow-up items may include insurance certificates, vendor lists, emergency planning documents, law enforcement or security confirmation, and other supporting permits tied to food service, fire activity, alcohol, or temporary operations.

Choosing a Location

Public property events may be considered in City parks, plazas, and on certain City-maintained streets, depending on the proposed use, site conditions, and operational needs. Organizers should be aware that most DOT-maintained roads are generally not approved for closure, and locations with transit, emergency access, or other logistical constraints may require a different approach.

Public Space Priority

Requests to use public property are reviewed within a prioritization framework that gives first consideration to City uses and City partnerships, followed by nonprofit events serving the general public, nonprofit or private group events serving a more limited audience, and commercial ventures or for-profit events.

Community Impact

Public property events should be planned with consideration for nearby neighborhoods, businesses, and visitors. Depending on the location and scale of the event, organizers may be asked to take additional steps to reduce impacts, such as providing advance notice, sharing event information with affected groups, or documenting notification for street closures.

Accessibility

All events on public property must comply with City, County, State, and Federal disability access requirements. Organizers should plan for accessible routes, restrooms, parking, signage, and participation areas so that temporary event sites and related structures are accessible to people with disabilities. Where full access cannot be provided in one area, an alternate area with the same activities must be available.

Fees and Deadlines

Public property events follow inquiry, application, permit, and service-related deadlines based on the type and scale of the event. Organizers should plan carefully and submit all required materials on time, since missing a deadline can result in cancellation of the permit process, even close to the event date. An application fee is required to initiate processing, and all fees payable to the City of Asheville must be paid before permits will be issued. Find the full City fee schedule for special events in the Public Property Outdoor Special Event Guide.

Community & Regional Entertainment Facilities