Fort Collins, CO Special Events & Permits: Block Party Permits (2026)

Sec. ' Because a block party is one of the enumerated categories inside the definition of 'special event,' Sec. 5. Sec. 5-3(c)(1) sets a filing window specific to this category: block party applications must be submitted 'not less than twenty (20) business days before the date of the event,' shorter than the 45 business days required for most other special events and the 60 days required for events serving alcohol. For block party applications, the definition of 'Permitting Authority' in Sec. 5-2 shifts from the citywide default to 'the Manager of the Neighborhood Services Department or their designee,' reflecting that neighborhood block parties are routed through that department rather than the office handling parades and festivals.

Once filed, the Permitting Authority must act within five business days under Sec. 5-6, approving, conditionally approving or denying the application on grounds listed in Sec. 5-7, which include conflicts with another scheduled event, an inadequate traffic safety plan if the party closes a street, or unpaid fees from a past event. Fees and any required deposit for City services must still be paid under Sec. 5-5 before the permit issues. A denial or unfavorable condition can be appealed to the City Manager within three business days under Sec. 5-9.