Des Moines, IA Special Events & Permits: Block Party Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit required
- Standard street use permit
- Residential filing deadline
- 30 days before event
- Commercial filing deadline
- 90 days before event
- Max duration
- 1 to 5 days
- Issuing office
- City manager's office
Summary
Des Moines requires a street use permit before closing any street for a block party, festival, or timed event, with residential applications due at least 30 days ahead.
A standard or annual street use permit is required for the temporary closure of any portion of a street for any timed event, activity, block party, festival, or events of similar character and nature. Events conducted on city park property are exempt when approved by the park and recreation director or his or her designee.
(O.13,738, 14,107, 14,329)
Sec. 102-1123.01. - Permits not transferable. Street use permits issued under this division are not transferable to any other person or entity.
(O.14,329)
Sec. 102-1123.02. - Exemptions. (a)Nothing in this article shall be construed as requiring a street use permit for funeral processions.(b)Nothing in this article shall be construed as requiring a street use permit for parades as defined in article XVII, section 102-1170 of this Code. (O.14,329)
Sec. 102-1123.03. - Authority of chief of police for street use events. The chief of police is empowered to prescribe the conditions governing any street use event under this article, including the designation of the routes to be followed, held or proposed to be held on any public street. If the public interest so requires, he or she may for limited periods of time prohibit or restrict parking on any street where unrestricted or restricted parking is permitted under this code. Signs may be placed, police officers stationed or other steps taken to inform the public of special regulations.
(O.14,329)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 38 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
City code makes a standard street use permit mandatory for any temporary street closure held for a block party, festival, timed event or similar activity under section 102-1123. The city manager's office and a multi-department street use team review applications; residential-district events must be filed at least 30 days before the date, commercial-district events at least 90 days, per section 102-1125. Applicants pay a nonrefundable fee set in the city's schedule of fees, carry liability insurance, and clean up trash within a one-block radius afterward. Section 102-1135 makes it a violation to hold the event without a valid permit.
Violations & Fines
Operating a block party without a valid permit, violating permit conditions, or falsifying an application violates § 102-1135; police or fire can revoke the permit under § 102-1134, and unspecified penalties default to a misdemeanor under § 1-15.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to close my street for a block party in Des Moines?
How far in advance do I need to apply?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Des Moines
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