Step 1 – The Application
Download Application

Submit your application no less than 30 days prior to the scheduled event. Applications submitted less than 30 days in advance may be denied or rescheduled to a late date. Applications can be submitted the following ways:

• By Email: [email protected] (preferred)
• In Person: Parks Tacoma Headquarters, 4702 S. 19th Street, Tacoma, 98405
• By U.S. Mail: Parks Tacoma, Attn: Permits, 4702 S. 19th St., Tacoma, WA, 98405

Please note: Closure of a City of Tacoma street that abuts a Parks Tacoma park also requires a City of Tacoma Special Event Permit. Contact: Ashley Young at [email protected] or (253) 573-2523

Step 2 – The Review Process
The Special Use Permit Review Committee, which meets on the first Thursday of every month, reviews applications and makes the final determination on:

• # of Garbage totes
• # of Portable restrooms
• Site map/layout
• Recycling plan and # of containers
• Traffic/parking plans
• Utilities access
• Public safety plans

Step 3 – Approval/Denial & Follow-Up
Following the monthly Committee meeting, staff will contact the applicant regarding the approval or denial of the permit request and any outstanding permit requirements and fees that need to be collected.

Once all conditions have been met, a final permit may be issued.

Fees and Locations for Filming or Photography Uses
All fees include one staff person. Locations subject to committee review/approval.

Parks
Photography

• $500-$2,000 commercial
• $250-$1,000 non-profit

Videography

• $500-$2,000 commercial
• $250-$1,000 non-profit

Meadow Park Golf Course, Point Defiance Marina, Tacoma Nature Center, All Community Centers, All Athletic Fields
Photography

• $350-$1,000 commercial
• $250-$750 non-profit

Videography

• $300-$2,400 commercial
• $250-$750 non-profit

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Northwest Trek Wildlife Park
Photography

• $1,200-$2,400 commercial
• $600-$1,200 non-profit

Videography

• $1,200-$2,400 commercial
• $600-$1,200 non-profit

Extra Fees
*See Below

Fort Nisqually, Seymour Conservatory, Point Defiance Lodge, Point Defiance Pagoda, Titlow Lodge
Photography

• $600-$1,500 commercial
• $300-$750 non-profit (negotiable)

Videography

• $600-$1,500 commercial
• $300-$750 non-profit

Extra Fees
*See Below

* Staff/Maintenance: $30-$50/hour
* Keeper/curator: $50/hour
* Tacoma Police Dept./Tacoma Fire Dept.: Prices determined by Tacoma Police Department and Tacoma Fire Department.

Green Event Application
Green Event applications must be received no less than 60 days before the event date.

Events that achieve Green Excellence certification may be eligible for Environmental Services Event Support. This can include free or discount services such as garbage, recycling, food waste bins, and/or portable toilets. You will receive the optional Environmental Services Event Support request form via email only after your event has achieved Green Excellence certification.

Environmental Services support requests must be received no less than 30 days before the event date.