Special Events & Permits in DeKalb County, GA (2026)
4 rules for unincorporated DeKalb County, Georgia.
Verified from official government sources
Park Event Permits
Groups wanting a DeKalb County park area or picnic shelter must apply to the parks department and pay a board-set reservation fee, capped at one booking per shelter each month.
DeKalb County Picnic Shelter Reservations
Some RestrictionsDeKalb County Code § 19-29(a), (c)
The use of a county park area or picnic shelter may be reserved for a reasonable period of time for the purpose of group activities through application to the county and upon payment of a reservation fee in accordance with the schedule established by action of the board of commissioners, a copy of which is on file in the office of the clerk of the board of commissioners.(b)Application. All pers...
Parade Permits
Anyone holding or joining a parade in unincorporated DeKalb County needs a permit first. Code § 17-221 makes it unlawful to hold or participate in a parade there without one, and the permit process runs through the police department, with bonds, advance notice and restricted hours.
DeKalb County Parade Permit Requirement
Significant RestrictionsDeKalb County Code § 17-221
Sec. 17-221. - Required. It shall be unlawful for any person or group of persons to hold or participate in a parade in the unincorporated area of the county, without first securing a parade permit from the county.
Street Fair Rules
Street fairs, carnivals and community festivals in unincorporated DeKalb County need a special administrative permit and must sit at least 100 feet from any residential district under the temporary-use zoning rules.
DeKalb Temporary Outdoor Event Permit Rules
Some RestrictionsDeKalb County Code § 4.3.5.A-B
Temporary outdoor events may include temporary art shows, carnival rides, special outdoor social or religious event, entertainment, athletic events, rodeos, horseshows, and other events of community interest. A.Use regulations. Temporary outdoor events shall be governed by the following regulations:1.Site conditions.a.Employees shall be uniformed and identified.b.Security or off-duty police ...
Sidewalk Dining & Cafés
Unincorporated DeKalb County lets restaurants and coffee shops set up outdoor seating on public or private sidewalks in commercial zones, as long as it's next to the building and doesn't block ADA access or traffic.
DeKalb County Sidewalk Cafe Seating Rules
Some RestrictionsDeKalb County Code § 27-4.2.37
Outdoor display shall be permitted in conjunction with permitted uses in the NS, C-1, C-2, MU districts, M, and M-2 zoning districts...All outdoor display areas shall be located contiguous to the principal building, subject to all fire safety requirements....These standards shall apply to outdoor seating areas at restaurants, coffee shops, etc.
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