Special Events

Scottsdale is an ideal environment to hold a special event due to its inviting weather, abundance of shops and activities, and year-round attractiveness to our many visitors and residents. The City recognizes special events as an important part of Scottsdale’s quality of life and the contribution they make to a sustainable tourism industry. 

Special Event Guidebook

Most special events represent a major investment of time and money. When well planned and executed, they can bring rewarding dividends to the organizers as well as the City of Scottsdale. Successful events require responsible leadership, careful planning, sensitivity to potential impacts, good organization and follow through, plus the ability to anticipate the unexpected. City staff is available from multiple departments to assist with questions and potential solutions to your specific event planning needs. We encourage you to use the Special Event Guidebook as a resource for planning a safe, successful event, along with important procedural items, policies, and contact information. The guide will aid event producers in planning a special event within the city and includes user friendly visual aids and city requirements. 

Special Event Guidebook 

Application & Permit Process

Adopted Special Events Ordinance

Fees for Special Events 

Fee Schedule (PDF) - effective July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022

There is an application review fee and permit fee to hold a special event.  The application review fee is due upon receipt of the completed application in order to begin review.  Events that propose to use public property as part of the event footprint are required to pay use fees.  Permit and use fees will be collected prior to the event at time of permit issuance (once event has been approved).

Scheduled for City Council decision on December 7, 2021. Proposed Mobile Food Vending Ordinance and fees

A new state law places parameters on how cities and towns may regulate mobile food vendors. In response, the city has proposed a new draft ordinance to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public while complying with state law. The ordinance defines who must be licensed, outlines application procedures, establishes fees, defines parking criteria, provides a process for penalties and license revocation, and establishes operational requirements. View a conceptual map identifying potential locations where food trucks may operate in Old Town, as well as a graphic illustration depicting ordinance criteria. Email Terry Hoglund, Tax & License Manager, thoglund@scottsdaleaz.gov, with questions or comments.

Old Town Events

There are event spaces located within Old Town which include: Marshall Way Bridge, Stetson Plaza, Canal Banks area, Solstice Park, Civic Center and the Scottsdale Stadium. To inquire about availability, please contact:

Civic Center (under construction Oct. 2021 – Dec. 2022):
Annie Parker, Facilities Rental Manager 
AnneP@Scottsdalearts.org
480-874-4604

Scottsdale Stadium:
StadiumInfo@ScottsdaleAZ.gov
480-312-2586

Marshall Way Bridge, Stetson Plaza, Canal Banks and Solstice Park:
Cheryl Sumners, Events Manager 
CSumners@ScottsdaleAZ.gov
480-312-7834

Any Old Town events proposed along the canal banks within 65' on either side of the canal require SRP review, approval, and licensing.

SRP permit information 
landinformation@srpnet.com 
602-236-3105

Event Funding Programs

To learn more about event funding or the event directional banner program, visit our Tourism & Events webpage.