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Special Events & Filming

Special Events

Image of Special Event Permit Application

NEW! Online Special Event Permit Application

$150 permit application fee
$10 per business day late fee

A Special Event Permit is required for an organized activity that incorporates the use of:
  • City public streets, sidewalks, rights-of-way; and/or
  • City public parks or other City public property; and/or
  • Outdoor private property including parking lots, only when the property is part of a Special Event Venue that includes City public property and permission has been received by the property owner/manager (for example, a parking lot used as part of a street festival venue).
Examples of activities that require a Special Event Permit include festivals, parades, runs/walks, and farmer/art markets.  
 

There is a $150 permit application processing fee 60 days or more prior to the event day and an additional $10 per business day late fee for applications received less than 60 days prior to the event date. It is strongly recommended that you submit your permit application at least 120 days prior to the proposed event date.

Special Event Planning Guide

The Special Event Planning Guide has been developed to guide you through the Citywide Special Event Permit Process and to provide you with guidelines and requirements associated with special event management in the City of San Diego. This is an important reference guide as you develop your event plans and complete your permit application.

COVID-19 Guidelines 

Please refer to guidance issued by the California Department of Public Health (CPDH) regarding the return to usual operations for most activities with recommendations for prevention protocols and mitigation for all events. The requirements and recommendations for negative testings / vaccine verification as issued by the CDPH will be in place effective through November 1, 2021. The state will assess conditions by November 1, 2021, to determine whether updated requirements or recommendations are needed beyond November 1, 2021. 

Event organizers considering a large-scale event (including Mega Events) should consider the below protocols. While not required by the State or County Public Health Department, event organizers are strongly encouraged to have COVID prevention protocols and mitigation efforts in place in order to provide best efforts to ensure a safe event. 

  • Develop a safe reopening or COVID prevention plan (will assist in workers understanding specific roles)
  • Sanitation plan for restrooms (if applicable)
  • Food and beverage plan that incorporates COVID prevention techniques (if applicable)
  • Compliance enforcement plan
  • Social distancing when possible or at pinch points
  • Signage encouraging masking if unvaccinated or other requirements as determined by organizer
  • Hand sanitizer availability throughout event

Special Events Storm Water and Recycling Compliance Videos

Other Special Event Related Permits

There are a number of different special event related permits that may be issued independent of a Citywide Special Event Permit or may be required in conjunction with a Citywide Special Event Permit. The proposed event venue, activities, components, attendance, and unique circumstances of the event are contributing factors to the final determination of the required permit types.

Following is a summary of the most common permits types you may be required to obtain if you are planning a special event or an activity associated with a special event.