If you’d like to host a special event such as a carnival, festival, demonstration, flea market, or concert, you may need a special events permit. This permit is required for any event that uses:
- City-owned or occupied property.
- City equipment.
- City services.
The Office of Special Events works with other City departments to make sure that event hosts have all the necessary:
- Permits.
- Licenses.
- Agreements.
- Insurance.
Submitting an application does not guarantee that you will get a permit. Event organizers should not issue any press releases, post advertisements, or sell tickets until the necessary approvals and permits have been issued.
When to apply
The application fee varies based on when you apply.
- Standard application fee: $25 (at least 90 days in advance, and all demonstrations)
- Expedited application fee: $75 (less than 90 days in advance)
Additional rules for demonstrations
Applications for demonstrations should be submitted at least five business days before the proposed event date.
Exceptions will be made if the proposed demonstration is a spontaneously planned event. This includes responses to recent or future political events, or other announcements, decisions, determinations, or declarations.
If you want to request the rental and use of City-owned equipment for your demonstration, you must apply at least 60 business days before the event date.
How to apply
Our new digital application will guide you through providing general event information, event-specific details, an event accessibility plan, and any required supporting documents.
If you want to save your progress and return to the form later, you must copy the unique link from the “Save and Resume Later” box or enter your email to get the link sent to you. This link will allow you to resume your application within 30 days.
Refer to the event checklist below to learn about the different permissions and plans that are commonly needed.
Alternatively, you can call us at 215-686-3488 to request a printable special event application.
After you submit your form, you will receive a completed copy of your application to the email you provide. If you need to make changes to your application after submission, please email OSE@phila.gov.
You will receive a payment link after your application is reviewed and assigned a reference number.
If you are unable to pay online, you may submit payment by check or money order made payable to “The City of Philadelphia.” Payments can be mailed to:
Office of Special Events
One Parkway Building
1515 Arch St., Floor 15
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Cash is not accepted.
Application fees are nonrefundable, and permits will not be issued until the application fee is paid in full. This includes the late fee, if applicable.
Event checklist
The requirements for special events vary widely. Use the list below to find out what other requirements and approvals you may need for your event.