Concord, NC Special Events & Permits: Block Party Permits (2026)

Section 50-250 defines "festival" to mean an outdoor concert, fair, exhibition, promotion, community event, block party or similar event, and defines "public assembly" to include any festival held generally in one fixed location on a sidewalk or street in a way that interferes with normal traffic flow, as opposed to a parade that proceeds along a route. That link matters because § 50-252(a) makes it unlawful to hold any parade or public assembly, including a block party, without a permit first obtained from the chief of police.

The organizer files an application on city forms; if the block party requires closing a street or rerouting traffic, the application is due at least 72 hours ahead, and 48 hours ahead for any other public assembly, though the chief may accept shorter notice for a spontaneous event or other good cause. The application must list the responsible on-site manager, requested date, time, place and any street or sidewalk closings, anticipated attendees, vehicles and animals, planned amplified sound or signage, and, for festivals specifically, whether alcohol, live music or retail stands will be part of the event.

The chief of police issues a written decision within three business days, but never less than 24 hours before the event, based on objective public-safety findings under § 50-254, such as whether enough officers are available and whether the event conflicts with another already-permitted assembly. A denial can be appealed in writing to the city manager's office within ten business days, triggering a quasi-judicial hearing within five business days under § 50-258.