Seattle, WA Special Events & Permits: Block Party Permits (2026)

Seattle residents can obtain free block party permits to temporarily close residential streets and alleys for neighborhood gatherings. Applications are submitted through the Seattle Services Portal as a Short Term Use record type. Each application requires four contacts (event organizer, on-site contact, alternate contact, and financially responsible party), though in many cases all four can be the same person. The financially responsible party assumes liability for any permit-related costs in the rare instance where complaints require an inspection. Block parties are restricted to residential streets and alleys only. Applicants must input the nearest address of the event location in the application. SDOT reviews applications to ensure the closure will not significantly impact traffic or emergency access. Standard block parties allow temporary street closure for one day, typically on weekends. Seattle also offers Play Street permits for recurring street play activities in residential areas. No fees are charged for standard block party permits, making them accessible to all neighborhoods.