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Frequently Asked Questions

We are a non-profit or charitable organization. Can we get the City facility or permits for free or at a discount?

No. The vast majority of the events held in the City's parks and on State Street are sponsored by non-profit organizations. Having non-profit status does not qualify an organization for discounts. The current fees are available on the various Special Event permit websites. It is suggested that when you are planning your event budget, you consider the City permitting fees, including City staffing or equipment that may be needed.

Madison Parks offers a Community or Neighborhood Group Park Event permit, with some reduced fees for qualified park events. Please review the criteria on the website to see if your event qualifies.

I want to sell beer/wine at a public event. Do I need a permit?

Yes. You need to apply for a Temp B Picnic License through the City of Madison Clerk's Office at least 60 days in advance. Temp B FAQ

How can I reserve an open space in a Madison park without a shelter reservation?

Open Space Park Event permits are for smaller, private, one-day events in a Madison park without a shelter reservation. Typically this is intended for a small-scale wedding ceremony using open green space.

I would like to request Madison Police staffing at my event. Who do I contact?

Please contact mpdevents@cityofmadison.com to discuss MPD staffing at your event.

I would like to request Madison Fire EMS staffing at my event. Who do I contact?

Please contact Division Chief David Crossen at dcrossen@cityofmadison.com to discuss MFD EMS staffing at your event.

May I sell food, crafts, merchandise, etc. on a City of Madison street or sidewalk?

No. Vending on City of Madison public property is regulated and requires licensing. The Mall Concourse, including State Street, Camp Randall Stadium and other high density vending areas may have additional licenses and site assignments. Please see Street Vending and Sidewalk Cafes for more information.

May I set up a food cart or sell crafts, merchandise, etc. in a City of Madison park?

You must have a Park Vendor Permit AND approval from City Parks Staff. Please contact madisonevents@cityofmadison.com to get more information.

May our group put up a sign or banner about our event in a City of Madison park?

Signs or banners are only allowed in a City of Madison park on the day-of an event. The event must get prior approval through the Park Event permit process to post signs or banners in a park. Signs are never allowed in a City of Madison public right-of-way.

Do I need a permit to march from Library Mall to the Capitol?

No, if your group will have less than 100 people, stay on the sidewalks, and obey all traffic signals along the route. Amplified sound is only allowed in certain Downtown Performance Spaces at certain times.

Yes, if your group will have more than 100 people or you are requesting to use a street, traffic lane, or parking lanes. See Rallies & Marches for permitting requirements.