Parks & Recreation / Permits
Reserving a shelter, a field, or a stretch of park for your event goes through this office. Here's what you need and how long it takes.
NOTICE: Permit requests submitted less than two weeks before the event date are not guaranteed review. The department has heard every version of "but it's an emergency" and remains unmoved.
Permit Types
Most Common
Reserve a covered shelter at Ramsett Park or Founders' Park for a birthday, reunion, or department picnic. Available in half-day or full-day blocks.
Sports
Reserve a ball diamond or open field at Sweetums Field or Ramsett Park for a league, tournament, or practice. Priority is given to youth leagues.
Large Gatherings
Required for any gathering over 75 people, amplified sound, or road closures near a park. This is the permit the Harvest Festival runs on.
Commercial
Required to sell food or goods on park property. Sweetums-affiliated vendors are, somewhat controversially, fast-tracked.
Media
Required for any commercial photo or video shoot on park grounds. Personal photos, engagement shoots, and the occasional dramatic proposal are exempt.
Small Groups
For smaller organized gatherings under 75 people that don't need a shelter or field — yoga groups, walking clubs, and the like.
The Process
Figure out which permit fits your event using the list above. Most shelter and field reservations only need the basic form.
Requests can be submitted in person at City Hall or by phone. Special Event Permits need at least 30 days' notice.
Staff will check the date against existing bookings, capacity limits, and whatever the Harvest Festival Committee already has planned that weekend.
Approved permits are confirmed in writing. Bring a copy with you on the day — verbal approval from someone in the department does not count.