Permit Applications Last updated or reviewed on March 27, 2026 Public property event applications begin with an inquiry. This page explains how invitation-only applications work, what materials are required for submittal, and what additional documents may be needed based on the type and scale of the event. How Applications Work Applications for outdoor special events on public property are accepted by invitation only. To receive an invitation, organizers must first complete the Public Space Inquiry Form. There is no cost or firm commitment required to submit an inquiry. Organizers should also review the production calendar before submitting to confirm that the preferred date or location is not already scheduled for another use. Minimum Requirements to Submit At a minimum, a complete application package must include the completed application form, the application fee, and a site plan or route map. Depending on the event, additional documentation may be required, including notification documentation for events involving street closures. Electronic submittal is required. Site Plans and Route Maps A site plan is required with the Outdoor Special Event Permit Application and must show the location of temporary event elements in relation to the site’s existing infrastructure. For activities such as races or runs, a route map is also required. Site plans and route maps should identify key safety features, access points, and temporary additions such as tents, stages, barricades, generators, portable restrooms, and other event infrastructure. Application Levels and Deadlines Application timelines vary based on the type and scale of the event. Public property events follow specific inquiry, application, and amendment windows, so organizers should begin early and pay close attention to deadlines. Missing a required deadline can result in the cancellation of the permit process. View the schedule in the Outdoor Special Event Guide. What Happens After Submission Applications are jointly reviewed by representatives from Parks & Recreation, Police, Fire, Risk Management, Transportation, Public Works, and Communications & Public Engagement, along with key partner agencies including Buncombe County and the North Carolina Department of Transportation. After the initial application and fee are received, the Office of Special Events presents any critical objections within 14 calendar days. If there are no critical objections, a document confirming conditional approval can be provided upon request. Insurance Requirements Event organizers must provide certificates of insurance for the event at least 3 weeks prior to the event. At a minimum, this includes general liability coverage from the producing organization, and additional insurance is required from safety-sensitive vendors or contractors participating in the event. Food, Beverage, and Safety-Sensitive Submittals Some events require additional supporting documentation after the initial application is accepted. Depending on the event, this may include food and beverage vendor lists, operational permits for mobile food trucks or pushcarts, insurance from safety-sensitive contractors, emergency action plans, fire performance or fireworks applications, crowd manager certificates, and alcohol-related approvals. Timing requirements vary, and some materials are due weeks in advance of the event. Street Closures and Public Notice Applications involving road closures require documented notification to impacted addresses as part of the application. Organizers may use the City’s form or provide their own documentation showing that notice was delivered in person, electronically, or by posted notice, as appropriate. Transportation and Parking Impacts Events that create parking, traffic, or access impacts may require additional transportation planning materials. Events held at locations without sufficient onsite parking must, at a minimum, include the City’s Transportation Planning Form. Parking closures must be identified on the application and clearly shown on the event site plan. Fees, Amendments, and Cancellations Application, permit, and service-related fees may apply throughout the review process. Amendments are subject to deadlines, and cancellations should be reported to the Office of Special Events at least 2 business days before the event. Certain fees are nonrefundable, while some unused service-related fees may be refunded in part with appropriate notice. Forms and Resources Public Space Inquiry Form Street Closure Notification Form Transportation Planning Form Fire Hydrant Meter Application Fire Performance / Fireworks Application
