San Francisco, CA Special Events & Permits: Block Party Permits (2026)

The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) administers block party permits under the SF Transportation Code. A neighborhood block party is defined as a one-block closure on a residential street where neighbors and friends gather. Applicants must be a resident of the block or a neighborhood resident association. Applications must be submitted at least 30 days before the event date. If approved, a permit is issued by email approximately two weeks before the event. Larger block parties or events expecting significant attendance may be referred to the Interdepartmental Staff Committee on Traffic and Transportation (ISCOTT) for review. SFMTA coordinates with police, fire, DPW, and SFPUC. Barricades are required at both ends of the closed block and the permit holder is responsible for placement and removal. Amplified sound requires a separate sound permit from the Entertainment Commission. Food service requires a permit from the Department of Public Health. Events involving alcohol require coordination with SFPD and may need an ABC (Alcoholic Beverage Control) permit.