Special Event Permit

A Special Event is generally any temporary event open to the public and held on public property, or a temporary event held on private property that has an impact on the regular flow of traffic. Examples may include any parade, race, carnival, community picnic, celebration, fundraiser, dance, concert, or large assembly.

Whether the event is organized and conducted by a tax-exempt non-profit organization, a for-profit organization, or an individual, it must meet the requirements of the  Special Event Policy (PDF) and  City Code Section 26-9, and organizers must reimburse the City for any City costs. After all requirements are met, the City will issue a Special Events Permit. Events shall operate only on the days and during the hours specified in the permit and shall not exceed seven consecutive days.

The Special Event permit does not apply to:

• any permanent place of worship, stadium, athletic field, arena, theatre, auditorium, school-sanctioned events on school property, or fairs conducted pursuant to Minn. Stats. Chapter 38
• activities permitted or licensed by state law or City ordinance, including publicly-sponsored activities in the local or regional park system
• family gatherings
• non-City wide garage sales
• non-recurring auctions or estate sales
• National Night to Unite events established through the Golden Valley Police Department
• funeral processions
• activities conducted by a governmental agency acting within the scope of its authority
• residential neighborhood block parties

Special Event Permit applications (PDF) must be submitted at least 45 days before the event. This includes the non-refundable permit fee and a map outlining the event (if applicable). Incomplete applications will be returned.

The cash deposit will be calculated based on the anticipated and potential cost to the City of Golden Valley and must be submitted no less than 30 days before the event.

Issuance of a Special Event Permit does not constitute a waiver of any Federal, State or City ordinances. Applicants are responsible for complying with all applicable Federal, State, and City ordinances.

Issuance of a Special Event Permit does not imply City sponsorship of the event. Event organizers may not use, print, or duplicate any City trademarks, logos, or identifications in connection with the event.

The Special Event Permit will require information about:

• maximum attendance levels
• parking and traffic control
• insurance
• security
• sanitary facilities (accessible restrooms)
• solid waste disposal
• mobile food vending
• cleanup
• fire protection
• notice to adjacent properties
• claims and damages

Before permitting an event, the City may place any other conditions reasonably calculated to protect the health, safety, and welfare of residents or persons attending.

The non-refundable Special Event Permit fee is $25. Billing will be itemized by:

• hourly rates for any City employees working on a Special Event, including fringe benefits
• equipment charges for any City equipment and supplies used at a Special Event
• replacement costs for missing and/or damaged equipment and supplies

Deposit fees must be paid at least 30 days before the newly scheduled event. Deposits will be accepted in cash check for 75 percent of estimated expenses and will be credited against final payment.