Special Event Permits

Special event applications are required when a patron (Lake Forest resident or non-resident) plans to have a gathering of more than 50 people at any City park. The process applies to private parties, non-profit organizations, and for-profit businesses.  Special events can be held during weekdays, as well as on the weekends. Several guidelines apply when filing out a special event application.

Guidelines

  • Fees associated with filing a special event application are typically $65 (permit application fee) and a flat $25 rental fee for resident use of an area of the park. Non-residents are charged $150 rather than $25 for using a specific area of the park, in addition to the $65 permit application fee. In the case a film permit is requested, fees are typically $200 for the right to film in any of our parks, plus the permit application fee and applicable park usage fee. 
  • The City requires a minimum of 30 working days prior to the proposed special event in order to circulate the application, gain the necessary signatures, and ensure the correct and complete insurance is in order.
  • Proof of insurance required includes Certificate of Liability Insurance (COI) naming the City additional insured for up to $1,000,000 and a separate Endorsement Certificate naming the City specifically insured for the date of the special event. Insurance that does not include the Endorsement Certificate will not be accepted.
  • Use of sound amplification is strictly prohibited at any special event. (LFMC Chap. 13.04)
  • Alcohol is prohibited at any special event. (LFMC Chap. 13.04)
  • Solicitation of any specific business at a special event is prohibited. (LFMC Chap. 13.04)
  • On weekends, the City provides a field ambassador the day of a special event to visit the event and ensure that the park has been prepared in accordance with the event permit and that event organizers are following the terms set forth in the event permit. After a special event is approved, the patron will be given the field ambassador’s contact info for their particular event date. During the week, City staff is available during regular office hours of 8:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
For specific questions and to initiate a special event permit, please contact Nick Gates, Senior Recreation supervisor, by email at ngates@lakeforestca.gov or by phone at (949) 273-6971.