Special Event Planning & Permits

A special event permit application is required for any temporary activity or series of temporary activities held outdoors on public or private property that is inconsistent with the legal use of the property, and open to the public by advertisement or invitation, with or without charge.

Apply for a Special Event Permit

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.

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).

There are city event venues and Old Town spaces that may be a perfect fit for your event. Venues include the Scottsdale Civic Center, Scottsdale Stadium, WestWorld and Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West. Spaces include the Marshall Way Bridge, Stetson Plaza, Canal Banks area, Soleri Plaza, and West Paseo. For more information and to inquire about availability, please contact:

City Venues

Scottsdale Civic Center
Facilities Rental Information: 480-874-4604

Scottsdale Stadium
Event Rental Information: 480-312-2586

WestWorld
Sales & Event Information: 480-312-6815

Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West
Event Venue Information: 480-530-3478

City Spaces

Marshall Way Bridge, Stetson Plaza, Canal Banks, Soleri Plaza, and West Paseo
Cheryl Sumners, Events Manager: 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
Email SRP
602-236-8739

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