Special Event Permit

Step 1 - Know the Timelines

60 days before your event

Submit your application package, even if you are in the process of finalizing details. This will give staff an opportunity to provide you with feedback on items that need additional work or attention in plenty of time for your event. In addition, if needed the supplemental applications like Liquor Licenses should be submitted for review.

30 days before your event

All required documents for your application must be submitted in complete and final form. This includes any supplemental applications like, traffic operation plans, parade/race routes, a detailed site map, engineering specifications for any structures, generator permits, etc.

10 business days for each round of plan review

City staff will review your application and site plan for compliance with applicable codes and laws and provide a response in writing within 10 City of Glendale Business days. It is important to note that most plans will not be perfect the first time so in order to ensure your event is permitted in time, it is critical that you submit early.

Step 2 - Location

Check the availability of the location that you want to use and make sure you have the permission of the property owner to use it.  

For Private Property, if you are not the property owner you will be required to submit documentation showing that you have permission to hold the event.

Public Facility Rental Opportunities - to find city venues
Glendale Civic Center - full service event venue

To obtain more information about reserving a city park or facility, contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 623-930-2820.

Step 3 - Site Plan

Efficient processing of your application is dependent upon a comprehensive site plan that visually depicts specific activities and infrastructure noted in your application.  At a minimum, your site plan MUST include the following components.  See the Sample Site Plan(PDF, 747KB) in the Document Center as a guide.

BASE INFORMATION:

• Directional compass
• Existing buildings and structures 

LAYOUT DETAILS:

• Barriers and fencing
• Portable restrooms 
• Stages and platforms
• Generators
• Activity areas
• Tents or canopies
• Mobile food units
• Tables/chairs 

SPECIFICATION DETAILS:

• Fire access & widths
• Fire extinguisher locations
• Fire hydrants
• Occupant loads of enclosed or fenced areas  

AREAS:

• Total square feet of any structures
• widths and distances for all exits, fire access roads, structure/fixture/ spacing widths

Step 4 - Application Package

All of the forms for Special Events are shown in the Document Center above. Start with Form 1 - Special Event Application.

As you are completing the application, based on your answers to the questions you will be directed to additional forms that may be required.

Step 5 - Submit

When you have your master application, site plan, and any ancillary applications ready to submit, clickhere, fill out identifying information and submit your electronic documents.

Your application package will be routed to our Special Events processing team.

Step 6 - Finalizing

What To Expect After Submitting Your Package

• Ensure we have good contact information for you.  City staff will regularly communicate with you by phone or email on any outstanding items or questions.  Your ability to respond quickly will expedite the permitting process.

• If you are not sure what the status of your application is, call 623-930-4420 or send us an email.

• After all comments are resolved, the city will issue the appropriate permits and will notify you that they are ready.

• You will need to call for inspection for items such as tents, generators, or stages that required additional permits.  As soon as structures are in place or a minimum of two (2) business days prior to the event, you or your vendor must call (623) 915-3263 to request an inspection  When the inspection is satisfactory, the city will issue a “green tag” which must be displayed during the event.

• The Fire Prevention Office will inspect the entire set up on the day of the event to ensure compliance with Fire Codes.  Please contact Fire Prevention at 623-930-4420 if you wish to establish a specific time for the inspection.