Lawrence, KS Special Events & Permits: Block Party Permits (2026)

A complete block party application must be filed with the coordinator, the city's special event coordinator in the department of parks, recreation and culture, and includes a completed application packet, the fee set in the annual fee schedule, a site plan, an indemnification agreement, proof of insurance, a traffic control or route map, public notice documentation, an emergency response plan, and a restoration plan, per § 6-1504(a). Unless waived in writing for good cause, a preapplication meeting with the coordinator must happen at least five business days before the application is submitted under § 6-1504(c), and the application itself is due 25 business days ahead of the block party, or 40 business days ahead if alcohol will be sold, served, or consumed under § 6-1504(d)(1) and (d)(3).

The coordinator must act within 15 business days of a complete application and full fee payment, approving it unless one of 15 listed grounds applies under § 6-1505(c), such as an incomplete or fraudulent application, a scheduling conflict with another approved event, an undue burden on police, fire, or emergency services, or a substantial risk to public safety. Approved block parties must comply with the standards at § 6-1506, covering ADA access, alcohol and fireworks laws, security requirements, and utility staking rules, and the coordinator can revoke the permit before or during the event under § 6-1507 if conditions change or the event becomes dangerous. A denial, conditional approval, or revocation can be appealed to the director of parks, recreation and culture within 14 days under § 6-1508.