SPECIAL EVENT PERMITS

A special event is required if any of the following conditions meet the requirements:

  • Large Scale Meeting
  • Concert
  • Live music
  • Assembly
  • Fundraiser
  • Blocking of Streets
  • Parade or Procession
  • Use of sound amplifying system of any kind or any other similar display 

For additional details and or examples to determine if your event requires a Special Event Permit, refer to the Special Events and Block Party Brochure in the Resources column.

A SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT needs to be applied for at least 30 days prior to the event date. This helps to ensure that we can help you submit all the required information for approval, prior to your event. 

Please be advised that you may be required to submit an Insurance Certificate and Endorsement  for One (1) Million Dollars liability and naming the City of Gilroy as also insured. This insurance is required for both publicly accessible and private events on public property (e.g., parks) and in the public right-of-way (e.g., roads).

SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT PROCESS:

  1. Obtain a Special Event Permit Application.
  2. If renting a City Park, call the Recreation Department (408) 846-0460, Park Rentals first and process a reservation.
  3. Complete the Special Event Permit Application Form. Complete pages 1 and 2, sign page 4 and 5 if applicable, and attach a site plan. Include a traffic control plan and neighborhood notification plan if blocking streets. If you are using any Public Property a Certificate of Insurance naming the City of Gilroy as also insured, including an Endorsement page, must be provided.
  4. Turn in the form 30 days prior to the event date. The completed application can be emailed to Marco.Romagnoli@cityofgilroy.org.
  5. If there is additional information requested or the application was found incomplete you will be contacted via email and asked to make the application complete. If the application was approved you will be emailed or contacted to pay any fees and/or provide any additional documents such as a Temporary Health Permit, ABC License, Business License, etc.
  6. For final processing, pay any fees due to the Finance Department. Form of payment by credit card, please call the Finance Department at 408-846-0420 or by check mailed to: Attn: Business Licensing/Special Events Permits, City of Gilroy, 7351 Rosanna St, Gilroy CA 95020. You will then receive an emailed copy of your Final Special Event Permit.
ANY PUBLIC event that sells or distributes food shall follow the County Department of Health Food Safety Requirements and obtain permits from them as required. Call County of Santa Clara Department of Environmental Health at 408-918-3400 for temporary event food permitting information.