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 User Guide

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 User Guide as a resource for planning a safe, successful event, along with important procedural items, policies, and contact information.

The Tourism & Events Department submitted the 2nd edition of the Special Events Guidebook to the City Clerk’s office on June 1. The guide will aid event producers in planning a special event within the City.  Additions to the guidebook include user friendly visual aids, updates to correspond with changes in laws, and minor revisions and changes to requirements. 

Special Event Guidebook (PDF) - 2nd edition - effective July 1, 2018

Special Event User Guide (PDF) - First edition - effective July 1, 2016

Application & Permit Process

Adopted Special Events Ordinance

Fees for Events Held on Public Property

Fee schedule (PDF) - effective July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018

Events that propose to use public property as part of the event footprint are required to pay use fees for any events occurring on or after July 1, 2016.  Fees will be collected prior to the event at time of permit issuance (once event has been approved).

Updated Special Event Sign Regulations

The updated Special Event Sign Regulations were approved by City Council on March 21, 2017.

Special Event Sign Regulations

Old Town Events

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

Civic Center Plaza - Annie Parker, Facilities Rental Manager, 480-874-4604, AnneP@Scottsdalearts.org

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

Additionally SRP review, approval, and licensing is required for any Old Town events proposed along the canal banks within 65' on either side of the canal.

Contact:
landinformation@srpnet.com
P:602-236-3105
Refer to: SRP permit information

Event Funding Programs

To learn more about event funding, visit our Tourism & Events webpage.

Email Notifications

If interested in receiving updates about received special event applications, review and approval statuses, please subscribe here