Benton County, AR Special Events & Permits: Parade Permits (2026)

5 defines Temporary Uses to include special events, parades, carnivals, seasonal businesses and public health activities that are removed once a permit expires. B exempts a temporary use only if it meets four criteria together: the use runs 30 days or less in a calendar year, sits on private property with adequate off-street parking, involves a structure no larger than 120 square feet, and does not sell or display toxic, hazardous or flammable material. A parade occupying public rights-of-way fails the private-property test, so it falls to Sec.

D, which requires Planning Board review and approval for any temporary use that does not qualify for exemption. An applicant must file the Temporary Use Permit request at least fifteen calendar days before the event date, using the packet available from the Planning Department during counter hours. The submittal must include a completed application and fee, a cover letter describing the scale and duration of the event, an informal site plan, and any supplemental approvals the activity needs from agencies such as the Sheriff's Office, Health Department or Fire Department.

Under Sec. E, the Planning Board hears TUP requests in a public hearing, with no separate technical review session, and can approve or conditionally approve the permit only if it finds the use compatible with the surrounding area, not harmful to adjacent properties, and not a nuisance or safety hazard.