Santa Ana, CA Special Events & Permits: Block Party Permits (2026)

Santa Ana requires special event permits for all activities that may impact the normal flow of pedestrian or vehicle traffic, including neighborhood block parties, posadas, rallies, and marches. Block parties that involve closing a public street require a City Public Property Use Permit (also called a Street Closure Permit). To apply, the organizer must complete the City Public Property Use Permit Application and attach a petition signed by all businesses and residents located within the event boundaries, confirming their awareness of and agreement to the street closure. A site plan or diagram showing the event layout, barricade placement, and access points must be included. Completed applications are submitted to the Police Department Permit Counter at City Hall. The City requires at least 30 business days for processing and review. The permit fee is 168.68 dollars, payable by check to the City of Santa Ana. The Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Agency (PRCSA) administers the broader special events program and coordinates review among departments. Events that expect more than 100 attendees or involve amplified sound, cooking, or alcohol service may trigger additional requirements including insurance, fire department review, and potentially paid police supervision. Minor events of up to 100 attendees generally have simpler requirements than moderate (101-1000) or major (1001-plus) events.