Bellingham, WA Special Events & Permits: Park Event Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Application window
- 30–365 days ahead
- Decision deadline
- 20 days
- Enforcing agency
- Parks & Recreation Dept.
- Max civil penalty
- $250.00
Summary
Bellingham requires written permission from the parks and recreation director for special events in city parks, filed 30 to 365 days ahead, with a 20-day decision deadline and fees for reserved facilities.
B. Written permission is required for special events or any other activities that are specifically prohibited by this chapter. Permission may be obtained by submitting a written application to the office of the director of parks and recreation at least 30 days, but no more than 365 days, in advance of the date of intended use... Complete applications shall be approved or denied within 20 days of submission. C. Reservations and user fees are required for certain park facilities such as athletic fields, park shelters, and indoor facilities.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 2026-06-015, passed June 1, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Under BMC 8.04.030, using a Bellingham park for a community special or private event requires contacting the parks and recreation department to reserve the site, and any activity otherwise restricted by the park rules needs written permission from the parks and recreation director. Applications must state the time, place, nature of use, and responsible person or organization, and be filed 30 to 365 days before the event; the department must approve or deny a complete application within 20 days. Reservations and user fees apply to facilities such as athletic fields, park shelters, and indoor spaces, set by city council resolution.
Violations & Fines
Operating a special event or restricted park activity without written parks-department permission is a civil infraction under BMC 8.04.200, punishable by a fine up to $250.00 plus possible restitution.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far ahead must I apply for a Bellingham park event permit?
Does Bellingham charge for reserving park facilities?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Bellingham
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