Special Event Planning

Welcome and thank you for your interest in the City of Richmond!

The City of Richmond offers numerous locations that are perfect places to hold special events. This website is intended to help you understand the rules and regulations regarding the use of public property and to assist you with your event planning.

If you are considering a site located on public property within the City of Richmond for your special event, here are a few things you need to know.

To hold an event on public property, you must submit a Special Events Request Form if your event meets one or more of the following criteria:

• 300 or more people will participate
• It will be publicly advertised
• It will involve sales of food, beverages or merchandise
• It will make use of amplified sound, airborne objects, fireworks, or carnival-type attractions
• It will have an impact on streets, roads, right-of-ways or adjacent private property

Applications for a Special Events Request Form must be completed and submitted at least 45 days prior to your event. Permit fees are set and charged according to City Ordinance.

If your event meets any one of the above criteria, we suggest that you read the Rules & Regulations before going any further. Once you have read the Rules & Regulations, you may use this website to complete the necessary forms required to file your request for a Special Events Conditional Use Permit.

If you have questions, our Special Events staff can assist you. Please call (804) 646-0761 or e-mail RVASpecialEvents@rva.gov for more information.

In support of the City of Richmond’s RVAgreen Sustainability Initiative, all special events are encouraged to become as sustainable as possible, i.e. incorporating recycling or other waste reduction activities, promoting eco-efficient transportation, reducing energy and water use, etc. Visit the Green Events page here for more information.