Special-event permits for public property

Holding an event on public property — a park, street, plaza, or the oceanfront — requires a permit from the city or county special-events office, which coordinates police, fire, and public works on your behalf.

What they typically want:
• Event date, hours, and a site map.
• Expected attendance.
• Proof of liability insurance (often naming the city as additional insured).
• A list of activities (alcohol, food, amplified sound, vendors).

This usually has the longest lead time — plan on 60 days ahead, more for large or street-closing events — so it's the first call to make. Toggle "On public property" (and "Closing a street" if a road is involved) on the Permits page to surface this and draft your intro to the special-events office.

General guidance, not legal advice — the special-events office sets the actual requirements.