Virginia Beach, VA Special Events & Permits: Block Party Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit required for
- parades, block parties, 200+ gatherings
- Apply
- 30-180 days ahead of event
- Major multi-day events
- 60 days advance filing minimum
- Fee waiver
- no-street-closure noncommercial gatherings exempt
- Violation
- Class 1 misdemeanor
Summary
Virginia Beach requires a special event permit from the city manager for any block party, parade, or gathering of 200 or more people that uses public streets, sidewalks, or the boardwalk.
No person or entity shall hold, organize or sponsor any of the following events or activities unless a permit therefor has been granted by the city:(1)Parades, processions, marathons, bicycle races and other events utilizing the sidewalks or vehicular travel portion of city streets and highways, or the boardwalk...(8)Scheduled gatherings of two hundred (200) or more persons on any public property, other than parks.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 170 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Under City Code § 4-1, anyone organizing a parade, block party, or other event using city streets, sidewalks, or the boardwalk -- or a scheduled gathering of 200 or more people on public property -- must get a permit from the city manager. Applications are due 30 to 180 days ahead, or at least 60 days for a major event running two or more consecutive days. A nonrefundable processing fee applies under § 4-1.1, but that fee is waived for a noncommercial gathering that doesn't require closing a street. Operating without a permit, or violating its conditions, is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Violations & Fines
Holding an unpermitted parade, block party, or 200-plus-person gathering on public property is a Class 1 misdemeanor; the city manager may also revoke or suspend a permit for violating its conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a small backyard party in Virginia Beach?
How far ahead do I need to apply for a block party or street closure permit?
Is there a fee for a Virginia Beach special event permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Virginia Beach
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