Boulder Special Events

The City of Boulder is proud to host a variety of Special Events that contribute to the individual, social, economic and environmental health and well-being of our community.

Do I need a Special Event Permit?

A special event permit is required for all public activities conducted on public property that meet any of the following criteria:

• When the expected number of participants and spectators totals 50 or more people; and/or
• When using tents, structures and/or sound amplification; and/or
• When providing, selling or distributing alcohol and/or food to the public; and/or
• When using city streets and impacting vehicle, bike and bus traffic, or public right of ways.

Examples: Parades, athletic events, bike and foot races, street fairs, arts shows and festivals.

Advocacy activities do not require a special event permit. Please see Appendix G of the Special Event Guide for more information.

Special Event Guide

When planning a special event in Boulder, the Special Events Guide will help explain the application process. We encourage you to review this guide prior to submitting your special event permit application. The guide provides detailed information, including:

• Key dates and deadlines for submitting your special event application,
• Other permits that may be required for your event, and
• Zero Waste, safety and other requirements.

Special Event Permit Application

After you have developed the details and documents for your special event, submit your Special Event Permit  Application with all requirements defined in the Special Event Guide . A city representative will contact you and serve as your primary point of contact for processing and, if approved, issuing your permit.

Additional Permits, Inspections and Information

Additional City of Boulder permits and/or inspections may be required based on the size, scope and capacity of the special event, or if the event includes or offers any of the following items:

Frequently Asked Questions