Fort Worth, TX Special Events & Permits: Block Party Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Petition
- 50% + 1 of street residents
- Filing Window
- 15-60 days before event
- Barricades
- Type 1, adult-staffed
- Ordinance
- Ord. 1925-08-2010
Summary
Fort Worth Outdoor Events Ordinance No. 1925-08-2010 requires neighborhood events to obtain a permit from the Office of Outdoor Events. At least 50% plus one of affected street residents must sign a petition. Petition filed 15-60 days before event. Events with 500+ attendance are treated as Special Events with additional fees. Barricades must be staffed by adults 18+.
REGULATIONS: 1. Neighborhood events and parades may be held any day of the week but streets must be clear and open to traffic no later than 11 p.m. 2. Permits are required to be present during the entire duration of the event or parade. 3. A neighborhood event may occupy no more than 1,300 linear feet or two blocks. 4. The portion of the public right of way to be used by the neighborhood event shall be closed to vehicular traffic by an appropriate number of Type 1 barricades. Barricades are supplied by the permit holder, and permit holder is responsible for placing and removing them. 5. Barricades must be staffed with at least one person eighteen (18) years of age or older who is wearing a reflective safety vest. 6. Barricades must be removed within one-half (1/2) hour after the ending time of the event. 8. A 12-foot unobstructed roadway is required along closed sections of the streets. 10. A three (3) foot clearance shall be maintained around fire hydrants. 12. No admission fees may be charged.
Full Breakdown
Fort Worth's Outdoor Events Ordinance (No. 1925-08-2010) administered by the Office of Outdoor Events governs neighborhood block parties and events requiring street closures. A neighborhood event permit requires a petition signed by at least 50% plus one of the residents on the affected street, using the city's approved form. The petition must be signed no earlier than 60 days before the event and submitted to the Outdoor Events Manager no later than 15 days prior. Notice must be provided to all affected residents at least 15 days before the event by US mail, email, hand delivery, newsletter, posted signs on private property, or other customary communication method.
The event holder must provide standard Type 1 barricades on all closed streets, and barricades must be staffed by an adult at least 18 years old at all times during the event. Events with expected attendance of 500 or more at any time are classified as Special Events and require additional permit fees and documentation. Neighborhood events do not require a permit fee if attendance stays below 500. Contact the Office of Outdoor Events at 817-392-7894.
Violations & Fines
Holding a neighborhood event with street closures without a permit: citation and potential fine. Unstaffed barricades: safety violation. Events exceeding 500 attendees without a Special Event permit: subject to additional enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance do I need to apply for a block party permit?
Do I need to pay for a block party permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fort Worth
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