How to Apply for a Special Park Use Permit

Submit your inquiry for a permit using this form

This form is to be used by organizers with first time special event inquiries who are interested in holding an event in a City of San José park between the months of April 1 to October 31. This is not an application.

This form must be submitted 60 days in advance of the event date.
Once your inquiry is received a meeting will be held to discuss your event.
If you have submitted your request form and have not heard back from the Special Park Use Unit in two weeks, please call 408-794-6500.

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Hosting an Outdoor Special Event

The Special Park Use Unit permits many iconic locations throughout the City of San José for your event needs. If you are planning to host a private anniversary party, birthday party, wedding or other special occasions in a San José park, please call 408-794-7275 or visit the Rentals and Events page.

Iconic Locations

• Plaza de César Chávez
• Guadalupe River Park and Gardens – Discovery Meadow and Arena Green
• St. James Park
• Almaden Lake Park
• Emma Prusch Farm Park
• Lake Cunningham Park
• Guadalupe River Trail
• Los Alamitos Creek Trail

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What is a Special Event?

Any event or activity that is outside the normal parameters of what a location is designated for may be considered a special event.

Examples

• Music Concerts
• Cultural Festivals
• Walk-a-Thons
• Runs

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Special Park Use Permits

If your event includes the following, a permit may be required:

• Advertising
• Amplified sound
• Distributing or selling food, alcohol or merchandise
• Requiring extra event setup (i.e. stages, tents, tables)
• Requiring extra permits and/or services from other City or County departments (i.e. Police, Fire, County Health)

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FEES FOR A SPECIAL PARK USE PERMIT

Fees for special events vary based on your activity. Complete a request form, the Special Park Use Unit will assist you in obtaining an estimate of the fees.
The following links provide more information and guidelines:

• Special Event at Parks Guidelines
• Fee Matrix for Special Park Use
• City Costs for Special Parks Use
• Special Parks Use Contacts

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WHAT IS A LIMITED ACTIVITY PERMIT?

A Limited Activity Permit will allow a “limited activity” that has an expected attendance of up to 100 people, two (2) tables, four (4) chairs and an activity time of two (2) hours or less, excluding set-up, take down and clean-up. This may include small feeding and/or clothing distribution activities.

Limited Activity Permit Application

An activity larger than the small feeding and/or clothing distribution activity as defined above, would need to submit a complete Outdoor Special Event Permit Application to the Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services’ Special Park Use Office. Additional services and/or permits may be required for this request.