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.
(PDF) - 4th edition - effective July 2022Application & Permit Process
Adopted Special Events Ordinance
Fees for Special Events
Fee Schedule (PDF) - effective July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023
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).
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
602-236-8739
Event Funding Programs
To learn more about event funding or the event directional banner program, visit our Tourism & Events webpage.
Contact Information
Tourism & Events Department
P: 480-312-7177
tourismandevents@ScottsdaleAZ.gov
Cheryl Sumners
Events Manager
P: 480-312-7834
csumners@ScottsdaleAZ.gov
Erin Barry
Event Coordinator
P: 480-312-2453
EBarry@ScottsdaleAZ.gov
Special Event Process Resources
- Special Event Online Submittal
- Special Event Application Review Timeframes (PDF)
- Special Event Guidebook (PDF)
Special Event Online Resources
- Search for a Special Event Application
- View Approved Special Event Applications
- View Requested Special Events
Special Event Related Resources
- Grand Opening Applications (PDF)
- Film Permits
- Hiring Officers for a Special Event
- Neighborhood Input Form (PDF)
- Mobile Food Vendor/Food Truck Licensing
- Obtain a Liquor Permit for a Special Event
- Seasonal, Sidewalk & Special Vehicle Sales Application (PDF)
- Sign Regulations
- Special Assembly Permits
- Special Event Towing
- Temporary Use of Public Parking Spaces
- Tent Permits and Misc. Fire Permits