Special Event Permitting | Garland, TX

Special Event Permit Information

Planning an event or gathering? 

Some events require an event permit, while other events can utilize city parks without a permit for simple family gatherings, etc...

Other options for gatherings that do not require a permit, but a rental/reservation, are pavilion rentals in one of the City of Garland’s parks, or a room rental in one of the City's Rec Centers.

Does my event require a permit?

Answering a few simple questions will help you determine if you need to apply for a Special Event Permit:

• Is the anticipated attendance 100 or more?
• Will you have vendors at the event who are selling food or beverages, goods or services (i.e., fitness class/company)? Or do you plan to sell tickets for your event or sell other items at your event?
• Will you be using amplified sound?
• Will your event close or change the traffic pattern of a street or alley?
• Will your event impact the public use of a City park or natural resource?
  • Find a Garland Park that may be the best option for your event!
• Will your event involve firecrackers or animals?
• Will you be using any temporary structures, like tents, bleachers, portable restrooms, inflatable structures or stages?

If you answered "YES" to any of these questions, you will need to apply for and obtain a Special Event Permit.

Deadlines

If you are planning an event, your special event application must be submitted no later than 45 business days (Monday through Friday) before your event. Larger events or events requesting City Services will require 60 business days, so please plan accordingly. 

Submission of an application does not guarantee permit issuance.

While the Downtown Square is reserved for City-sponsored events, the above locations of Parks, pavilions, and Rec Centers are excellent options for your events.

If you are in need of assistance in making a decision regarding a location, City Staff can assist you. Please contact us at [email protected] or 972-205-2726.

Submitting an Application

To complete the application the following is required:

Event Site Plan (Map) - Must include the following:

• Activities location - i.e., car show, firecrackers, games, kid's area, other activities
• Food, beverage, merchandise vendor(s) location (if applicable)
• Parking areas
• Tents - number, sizes and location
  • Any group of canopies exceeding 700 sq. ft. will need a permit from the Fire Marshall's Office. A gap of 12’ will be needed between each grouping of 700 sq. ft. to separate them. Closed sided canopies are not to exceed 400 sq. ft. or a permit must be obtained from Garland Fire Marshal’s Office.   
• Stage(s) - type, location and dimensions 
• Restroom(s) location
• Signage - type, location, dimensions

Schedule of Events

Insurance Document - This document is not due at the time of the application, however please note that we will need it on file with your application no later than two weeks prior to your permitted event.

Upon receipt of the completed application, the Special Events Office will forward to the Special Event Permitting Committee for review.

Upon receipt of this application, the city will work hard to complete the approval process in two weeks' time from the first business day following the submission.

The applicant will be notified whether permission has been granted to proceed in planning the proposed event.

 Please do not market the event until it has been permitted. 

For assistance and additional information, please email Special Events or call 972-205-2726.