Pismo Beach, CA Special Events & Permits: Parade Permits (2026)

Section 12.16.020 defines a special event to include any organized formation, parade, procession or assembly of fifty or more persons, with or without animals or vehicles, that assembles or travels in unison on a street outside normal traffic regulations or controls, and any organized assemblage of fifty or more persons at a public beach or park. A demonstration is a formation, procession or assembly of fifty or more persons for expressive activity. Under § 12.16.030, a special event permit for use of city property comes from the chair of the special events committee or designee after committee review and City Manager approval, and the processing fee is set by City Council resolution.

The application is filed not less than sixty calendar days and not more than two years ahead (§ 12.16.080), and § 12.16.110 requires the route, a map and written narrative, the number of persons, animals and vehicles, the number of bands, portable sanitation, monitors and first aid plans. Section 12.16.040 exempts funeral processions by a licensed mortuary, government activity, lawful picketing on sidewalks, and demonstrations without vehicles, animals, fireworks or equipment other than sound equipment, if no fee is charged, traffic is not impeded, safety is not at risk, and the chief of police gets at least ten days notice or as much as is practicable and never less than thirty-six hours.

Section 12.16.130 requires denial when the applicant lacks traffic controllers, monitors or sanitation, and when the event needs exclusive use of a beach or park from Memorial Day through Labor Day in a way that harms public access. A marathon cannot occur within thirty calendar days of another marathon (§ 12.16.120). Insurance is at least one million dollars, or two million for large or higher-risk events (§ 12.16.180). Denials and permits can be appealed to the City Council in writing within ten working days (§ 12.16.140).