Bonita Springs, FL Special Events & Permits: Park Event Permits (2026)

Section 28-44 of the Bonita Springs Code is the permit engine for city parks. Subsection (d) requires a park permit from the director before participating in any activity within a park for which a permit is required. Subsection (e) sets the application: the applicant's name and address, the name and address of any sponsor, the day, hours and purpose, the park or portion of it, an estimate of anticipated attendance, and any other information the director finds reasonably necessary. A facility renter also complies with the facility reservation restrictions and executes a permit under the reservation and use form.

Subsection (f) lists six grounds for refusal. The director can issue a permit unless there is a reasonable probability that the activity will interfere with or detract from public enjoyment of the park, interfere with public health, welfare, safety and recreation, or incite violence, crime or disorderly conduct; will entail unusual, extraordinary or burdensome expense or police operation; that the facilities were reserved for other use at that day and hour; or that the activity does not comply with the rental use form. Under (g) the director can attach reasonable conditions or refer the application to city council. A permittee is bound by all park rules, is liable for injury caused by negligence, and must show proof of insurance for events when the director decides it is necessary. The director can revoke a permit for a violation or on good cause.

Section 28-32(h) adds a large-group rule. Except at Leitner Neighborhood Park, an event that attracts or is likely to attract 25 or more people, including distributors and servers, for the delivery or service of food needs a facility rental permit. Over 200 people or amplified sound also needs a special event permit from city council or its designee. Not more than three facility rental permits go to the same person, group or organization for the same park in a 12-consecutive-month period, and a denial can be appealed under section 6-21.