One Stop Special Events Application

Frequently Asked Questions

What kinds of events require special event permits?

Events that are open to the general public and are on public right-of-way or are located within a park would be coordinated through the special event permit process. Typically, these events require permits, licenses and approvals from several City departments depending on the size and nature of the special event.

If an event is on private property, what kinds of permits do I need?

A special event permit is not required for events that take place on private property. Depending on the nature of the event, various permits may be required. For instance, a special event on private property which includes amplified sound and food may require the following:

	A health permit to sell food (temporary food stands, food trailers, mobile food vehicles, and food carts)
	If the food vendor is using cooking equipment, it must be cleared through the fire department.
	If you are erecting tents, you will need to obtain a tent permit.
	If you are using amplified sound you will need to get approval from Health and Business License.
	Submit info about your event to police so that they are aware of your event.

What kind of permit do I need to complete for a neighborhood block party?

Neighborhood block parties require a Public Right-of-Way Application from the Public Works Department. Neighborhood block parties that require more than just a street closure such as vendors or amplified sound may need to apply for a Special Event Permit. Please contact the Special Event Coordinator at (626) 744-7216 to find out if the special event permit will be necessary.

How do I get a permit to hold a special event in Pasadena?

To initiate the special event permitting process, please complete the “Special Event Inquiry Sheet” available for download here. Email the completed inquiry sheet to mbernal@cityofpasadena.net. Please note that the acceptance of your applications should in no way be construed as final approval or confirmation of your request. The City of Pasadena requires the event applications be submitted at least 6 weeks in advance of the proposed event date.

What happens after I submit my special event permit application?

Once your Inquiry Sheet has been received by the Special Events Coordinator, you will be contacted to discuss your event proposal and, if acceptable, the permitting requirements. Copies of your application will be distributed to all city departments affected by your event. A coordinating meeting will be held to clarify questions and ensure that you are meeting all of the requirements of the special event permitting process. During the coordinating meeting you will be notified if your event requires any additional information, permits, licenses, or certificates.

How can I become a vendor at a special event or at the Rose Parade?

If you are interested in being a vendor at a special event, you must apply for a business license from the Business license office located in room 121 of City Hall. Business License forms can also be downloaded from the city’s website at www.cityofpasadena.net Vendors interested in participating at special events must contact the event promoter directly. The Special Event Coordinator does not maintain a list of vendors for special events. Vendors interested in participating along the Tournament of Roses Parade route must complete a questionnaire available from the city’s Business License office.

How do I reserve a park or public right-of-way for a special event?

You must complete the “Reservation Request Form for Use of City Parks/Property” and submit it along with the completed special event application to mbernal@cityofpasadena.net. This form is available as part of the “One Stop Special Events Application” available online at www.cityofpasadena.net/film/eventapplication.asp. Or, you can complete the same form by requesting it from the Human Services & Recreation Dept. RSVdesk at (626) 744-7195. Once the application is received by the RSVdesk, they will research the availability of the park for your event.

Does the City maintain a marketing list to promote events and recruit volunteers?

The Filming & Special Events office does not maintain a marketing list to promote and publicize events. Publicity is the responsibility of the promoter. The Filming & Special Events office does, however, maintain an online calendar with all of the special events that are coordinated through the permitting process. Once events receive a special event permit number, the event will be listed on the website. In addition, the calendar is distributed bi-weekly to different groups and companies within the City.

Volunteer recruitment is also the responsibility of the event promoter. To recruit volunteers for your event it is recommended that you contact a volunteer recruitment organization such as the Volunteer Center of San Gabriel Valley, the American Red Cross San Gabriel Valley Chapter, the Assistance League of Pasadena or the Junior League of Pasadena.

I’d like to have an event inside the Rose Bowl. Do I need to get a special event permit from the City?

Special events within the Rose Bowl facility do not require a special event permit from the City. To coordinate events within the Rose Bowl you must contact the Event Coordinator for the Rose Bowl Operating Company at (626) 577-3206.

Special events that are on public right-of-way outside the Rose Bowl require a special event permit from the City. Complete the “One Stop Special Events Application” online at www.cityofpasadena.net/film/eventapplication.asp.

Does the City maintain a list of private venues for weddings, wedding photography, or other private events in the City?

The City's Filming & Special Events Office does not maintain a list of private venues available for private parties. However, a number of resources exist within the City to assist you with finding a location for your private event.

You can contact the Pasadena Convention & Visitor's Bureau at (626) 795-9311 or visit their online venue list at www.pasadenacal.com/special.htm. You might also consider contacting the City's Park's Department at (626) 744-7275 to make a reservation to use the Tournament of Roses Estate on Orange Grove for wedding photography. Please note that Rose Garden is only available from March - July as all other times of year it is reserved for New Years related activities and preparations.

To reserve the City Hall courtyard for your private event, please call the Public Works Department at (626) 744-4195 to obtain an application and more information about reserving the facility for your private event.

In addition, the internet is a great source to scout locations for your private event. You can always do a general site search or visit www.herecomestheguide.com www.weddingchannel.com or any one of the number of internet sites available to assist you in planning your private event. The City of Pasadena is not responsible for privacy practices or the content of these sites.

Please be advised that your photographer is required to have a Business License from the City of Pasadena. The Business License Office (626-744-4166) is located at 280 Ramona Street across from the Permit Center.

Do I need a permit to rent out my parking lot for a special event or for the Rose Parade?

Yes. You must apply for a regular service business application from the Business License Office. After you complete the application, file it at the Business License Office located at 280 Ramona.

You may download the application at http://www.ci.pasadena.ca.us/finance/businesslicense/pdf/fin0101.pdf.


	Event F.A.Q.