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1. Who may obtain a Special Event Permit?

Please visit our Obtaining a Special Event Permit page for more information.

2. How much does a Special Event Permit Cost?

The fee for a not for Profit event is $150. The For-Profit event fee is $500.  Fees are due at time of application.

The Special Event application, fees, and all required documents must be filed at least 60 days prior to the event.  If the event constitutes a road closure, the application is due no less than 90 days prior to the event.

Additional Requirements (along with the application and fees and other required permit applications):

• Route or location to include start and termination
• Location of assembly areas
• List of participating vendors, if applicable
• Copy of liability insurance certificate

3. What are the Insurance Requirements?

The applicant shall submit proof of liability insurance naming the City of Gig Harbor as an additional insured by endorsement. Coverage shall remain in force throughout the event.  The insurance shall be written on an occurrence form by an insurance company with a minimum a.m. Best rating of A-VII.   The policy shall have primary coverage limits of at least: $1,000,000 Commercial General Liability (per occurrence), $2,000,000 annual aggregate. $1,000,000 Products per occurrence (if food and/or beverage vending is part of the event); $1,000,000 Personal and Advertising Injury, $50,000 each occurrence; $1 000-000-Fire Legal Liability; and $1,000,000 Damage to premises.  Liquor liability coverage with a minimum of $1,000,000 is required for events where alcohol is served.  Additional permitting may be required where alcohol is served.

4. What is the 'clean-up commitment'?

In the event a sponsoring organization fails to adequately provide clean-up in accordance with the plan submitted, the City may conduct the necessary clean-up and bill the sponsoring organization for such costs.  Expenses incurred by City staff in support of your event may also be billed.  The sponsoring organization must make payment to the City upon receipt of the City’s invoice for such costs.

5. What about Traffic Control?

The Chief of Police may require traffic control or additional on-site security.  If these law enforcement functions cannot be handled by the sponsor, and the use of additional police personnel are required, the permittee shall be responsible for the expense.  This fee will be collected prior to issuance of the permit.  The sponsoring organization may be asked to provide a traffic control diagram if there will be road closures with barricades, detours, etc.