Permit a Special Event

Obtaining a Special Events Permit with the City of Sarasota

Would you like to host a special event in the City of Sarasota? The following instructions will help you apply for a special event permit and gather necessary supporting documents.

A special event is any organized activity occurring on city-owned property within city-maintained right-of-ways for which the organizer requests the use of city services above and beyond the ordinary use, or which requires a commercial vending permit, pursuant to section 23-3.6 of the City of Sarasota Municipal Code. Please refer to the Customer Guide to Special Events and Permitting for more detailed instructions.

Step 1: Meet with Office of Special Events Team

• All event organizers are encouraged to meet with the Office of Special Events at least 120 days in advance of your proposed event.
• All applications must be submitted at least 90 days in advance of the event.
• All event organizers should make themselves familiar with the City of Sarasota Code of Ordinance for Special Event Permits prior to applying for a permit.

Step 2: Applying for a Special Event Permit

• Apply for your special event online. See Step 3 below.
• If your event is to be held on private property within the city limits and no street closures are necessary, you will need to obtain a temporary activity permit through the City of Sarasota Zoning Department.
• If you need a park permit, please contact the City of Sarasota Parks and Recreation Department.

Step 3: Submit Application

• Click here for special event permit application(PDF, 239KB).
• Submit the application to the Office of Special Events via email.
• Application must be fully completed and submitted at least 90 days in advance of the event.
• Information must include the name and description of the event; Dates and times to include set-up and breakdown times; requested street closures; estimated total attendance; Sponsor/Organizer information; Two (2) on-site contacts with cell phone numbers; detailed digital footprint of the event; any documentation relevant to the permit application processes and requirements set forth in the Special Events Planning Guide and Special Event Permit Application such as sound permits, temporary alcohol permits, authorization required by other agencies, etc.
• No applications will be accepted under 30 days prior to the event.

Step 4: Pay Application Fee

• Pay for your $50 non-refundable application fee at the Office of Special Events at 801 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236.
  • Currently checks payable to the City of Sarasota or exact change is only accepted.
• All applications will be subject to appropriate fees according to Resolution NO. 21R-3043
  • $250 – Late filing fee for applications received 89 to 60 days prior to the event
  • $500 – Late filing fee for applications received 59 to 30 days prior to the event
  • $50 – Change order fee for revisions made to the Special Event Application after the date of submittal
• Your application will not be processed until payment is received.
• The Office of Special Events will review and respond to your submitted application within 10 business days of receipt.

Step 5: Respond to Communication from the Office of Special Events

• The Office of Special Events will provide further instruction regarding tent permitting, police support, parking services, maintenance of traffic plans, necessary notifications, and approvals for street closures, etc. as needed.
• New/corrected documents need to be submitted to the Office of Special Events.

Step 6: Pay Invoice, Receive Permit

• A special event permit will not be issued until you have completed the above and all permit and service fees.
• Once all departments have approved and invoice is paid, you will receive an approved special event permit that must be readily available onsite of the event.