Bessemer, AL Special Events & Permits: Park Event Permits (2026)

Section 82-22(d) of the parks and recreation chapter requires a permit before three kinds of park use: any activity seeking exclusive use of a park or park facility, any gathering of more than nine people, and any activity that amounts to a special event or special activity outside normal everyday park use. To apply, subsection (e) requires the organizer to file with the director of parks and recreation the applicant's name and address, the sponsor's name and address, the requested day and hour, the specific park or portion sought, an estimated attendance, whether admission will be charged or donations solicited, and any other information the director finds reasonably necessary.

Subsection (f) requires the director to issue the permit if the activity will not unreasonably interfere with public enjoyment of the park, will not detract from public health, welfare, safety or recreation, will not incite violence, crime or disorder, will not impose unusual or burdensome expense on the parks department, and the facilities requested are available and not already reserved. Under subsection (g), any event proposing to charge admission, accept donations, or solicit a thing of value must also be approved by the city council, whose decision is final.

The director must grant or refuse the application within seven days and give written reasons for any refusal; a rejected applicant can appeal in writing to the city council within seven days, and the council's decision is final. The permit holder is bound by all park rules and remains liable for any loss, damage, or injury the permitted activity causes, and the director can revoke a permit for a rule violation or other good cause.