Special Events Applications

The City of Edmonds welcomes businesses and community organizations to activate public spaces with events that enhance quality of life and boost tourism. Whether you’re planning a free speech rally, neighborhood block party, race, or large festival our Special Event Program helps make it possible. 

Do You Need a Permit?

You must apply for a Special Event Permit if your event:

  • Takes place on public property or in a public right of way.
  • Is on private property, open to the public and/or expected to impact public right-of-way defined as 100+ guests.  

No permit required for:

  • Garage Sales
  • Events at venues designed for large gatherings (e.g., stadiums, athletic fields, auditoriums)

How to Apply

  1. Read the South County Fire Requirements for Outdoor Assembly Events
  2. Complete the Special Event Application
  3. Include all required attachments:
    • Certificate of Insurance
    • Event site map
  4. Submit via email: [email protected]

Permit Fees

Event Type  Fee
Small Event (<100 people)   $  50.00
Edmonds Non-Profit (Small Event)   $  25.00
Large Event (>100 people)  $ 125.00
Edmonds Non-Profit (Large Event)  $   62.50
Free Speech Events    No Fee
Rush Fee (Late Applications)   $  50.00

 

Payment Location: Frances Anderson Center (700 Main St. Edmonds, WA 98020)

Accepted: Cash, Check, Credit/Debit (service fee applies)

Application Deadlines

  • Small Events: Submit ≥ 60 days in advance
  • Large Events: Submit ≥ 90 days in advance
  • Free Speech Events: Submit ≥ 72 hours in advance
  • Late submissions incur a $50 rush fee and are subject to staff availability
  • Application fee payment does not guarantee special event permit approval

Insurance Requirements

Commercial General Liability Insurance

  •  $1M single / $2M combined per occurrence
  • Coverage must include set-up and teardown dates
  • City of Edmonds must be listed as Additional Insured

Addresses for Additional Insured:

  • Parks: Frances Anderson Center, 700 Main St, Edmonds, WA 98020
  • Right-of-Way: City Hall, 121 5th Ave N, Edmonds, WA 98020

Free speech events may be exempt from liability insurance requirements

Event Site Map Requirements

Include all stationary elements:

  • Fencing, booths, tents, stages (with sizes)
  • Equipment: tables, chairs, generators, lights
  • First aid stations, restrooms, trash bins, dumpsters
  • Vehicles, beverage gardens, parking areas

Street Events Must Also Include:

  • Street names and closure points (don’t forget to include alleyways)
  • Barricade, detour and local access sign locations
  • No parking zones and ADA parking

Promoters are responsible for providing approved traffic control devices.

Food Vendors & Food Trucks

All food vendors must:

Note: Vendors must serve event participants only. Serving the general public would require a concessions RFP with the City.

Alcohol Service

If serving alcohol:

  • Must have Liquor Liability Insurance ($1M minimum)
  • Must obtain a Special Occasion License or Banquet Permit from WSLCB
  • Permit must be submitted and posted at the event

Site map must show:

  • Fencing and 21+ restricted areas
  • Security and ID check stations

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for a park event?

Regular park rentals (e.g., picnic shelters, athletic fields, Yost Pool) do not require a special event permit. Festivals or events with 100+ participants do.

What about neighborhood gatherings?

No permit needed for neighborhood events, including National Night Out (Aug 2), per Edmonds City Code 1.100.090.

Is City Council approval required?

Only for events with recurring or extended right-of-way closures (over 5 days).

Examples include:

  • Classic Car Show
  • 4th of July Parade
  • Edmonds SpringFest
  • Block Party (formerly Taste Edmonds)
  • Porchfest
  • Farmers Market
  • Edmonds Arts Festival

Are there other fees?

Yes. Additional fees may apply for:

  • Park rentals and damage deposits
  • City resources (police, traffic, water, sanitation)
  • High risk/high impact activities (carnival rides, bounce houses, fireworks, parades)
  • External permits (WSLCB, Health Dept., L&I, Coast Guard, South County Fire)

Questions?

Email:  [email protected] or call 425-771-0230.