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.

Special Use Permit Fees (non-refundable)

• $95 Private Level 1: Under 100 attendees (includes bounce house permits for picnic shelter rentals
• $150 Private Level 2: Up to 200 attendees, or any event with more than 2 vendors

Garbage totes

• $65 per 300-gallon container
• $30 per 90-gallon recycling

Portable toilets

• $200 Regular unit
• $350 ADA unit

Water access $75
Electricity access $75
Police $105 per officer, per hour; 4-hour minimum required

$15 late fee if under 30 days.

Special Use Permit Location Options
Special Use Permits for private events are issued for the following parks.

• Jefferson Park
• Kandle Park
• Vassault Park
• South Park
• Verlo Playfield

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.