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Parks

Park Event Permit

people enjoying themselves at a park

Madison Parks is committed to keeping our parks welcoming, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone. Special events play an important role in how our community gathers, celebrates, and connects.

 

Do I need a Park Event Permit?

A Park Event permit is required if any of the following apply:

  • The event expects more than 250 attendees
  • Admission is charged or donations are requested
  • The event includes vending (any exchange of money)
  • The event involves fundraising activities
  • The event requires extensive use of park space
  • The event is promoted broadly to the general public, including through social media, flyers, or community postings

Note: A permit is not required if a gathering is promoted privately among friends, clubs, or small networks, even if all invitees are welcome.

Application & Fees

  1. Gather Event Information

    • Prepare your application requirements (see Step 2)
    • Check the Park Event Permit Fees to budget for your event.
    • Find a Park - you can search for a park by amenities (restrooms, parking lots, playgrounds, shelters), name or location
    • Email madisonevents@cityofmadison.com to check availability for your event's date and location. 

    Application Deadlines 

    DeadlineType of Event
    6 months (180 days)
    • New park events; based on complexity and size.
    • Returning park events; with past permit violations or significant changes from the previous year.
    3 months (90 days)
    • Applying for an extension of park hours, past 10:00pm.
    2 months (60 days)
    • Returning Park Events with no significant changes.
    • New Park Events that are small, not very complex and do not have extensive setup.
    • Events that are requesting serving or selling alcohol.

  2. Apply for the Park Event Permit

    Apply Online

    A non-refundable, $60 application fee is required when submitting your application. 

    Any remaining, applicable fees will be invoiced and issued with the permit.

    Required Documents

    You will need to attach the following documents to your online application:

  3. Permit Approval

    • Park's staff will reach out with any questions as we process your permit.
    • If Board of Park Commission (or subcommittee) approval is required, Park's staff will notify you of next steps.
    • Conditional approval is required before promoting, marketing, or advertising the event.
    • You can expect your permit 60-30 days before your event, depending on when the application was received.

Additional Information & Requirements

Public Notification Requirements

Some park events require the event organizer to contact residents or alders.

If a new event, that requires Board of Park Commission and/or Facilities, Programs and Fees Subcommittee approval 

The applicant shall send a copy of the application to the alder(s) and neighborhood association(s) for the requested location, as well as the date and time of the committee meeting when the application will be reviewed.

All events that are open to the public

The applicant will notify the alder(s) of the event approval
and provide event details, including day-of-contact information.

Additional Permits May Be Needed

Events with large tents, food and/or merchandise vending, and beer/wine service require additional licensing and permitting.

Reach out to the indicated agency below for specific questions on any additional licensing or permitting for your event.

Madison Fire Department (MFD): 608-266-4420 | fire@cityofmadison.com 

Licenses and Permits - please review to see if your event plans require additional licenses or permits.

  • Large tents, over 400 square feet
  • Tents with walls
  • Outdoor assemblies with fencing or enclosed on two sides
  • Bonfire component - a General Burning Permit is required if the event does not comply with MGO 34.307

Economic Development Division: 608-261-9171 | streetvending@cityofmadison.com

City Clerk's Office: 608-266-4601 | clerk@cityofmadison.com 

Public Health of Madison Dane County: 608-242-6515 | Leadmin@publichealthmdc.com

Public Health licenses - may be required if you are serving or selling food at a public event. 

  • A Transient Food Stand License is required for food vendors setting up temporary food stands to serve or sell food at public events
  • A Mobile Establishment License is required for food cart vendors selling or serving food at public events

Zoning Department: 608-266-4551 | zoning@cityofmadison.com 

Zoning permits - may be required if your event setup or activities include use of private property. 

  • Temporary Use permit is required if any portion of your event is on private property (parking lots)
  • Private Noise Amplification permit may be required if you will have amplified sound on private property

State of Wisconsin

  • Department of Revenue - 608-264-4582 - S-240 Form is required for any event that has vendors selling food, merchandise, etc. at the event
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