Chesapeake, VA Special Events & Permits: Park Event Permits (2026)

Under Chesapeake City Code Sec. 50-51, no person or entity may hold, organize or sponsor an event at a park or public recreation area without a permit from the city manager or designee if the event meets any of seven triggers: an anticipated crowd of 500 or more, use of amplified sound, temporary structures such as tents, stages or amusement devices like a bounce house or dunk tank, media-invited public events, animals on display for show, rides or a petting zoo, alcohol service, or use of the facility for something other than its usual recreational purpose.

Applications go to the city manager or designee no earlier than one year before the event, and no later than 30 days before an event of 499 or fewer attendees, 60 days before an event of 500 to 1,000, or 90 days before an event over 1,000. The application must include the applicant's name and address, the sponsor's name and address, the day and hours requested, the specific park or portion sought, an estimated attendance figure, and any other information the director finds reasonably necessary.

The city manager or designee must decide whether to issue the permit within 15 business days of receipt. Sec. 50-52 lets the director condition issuance on the permittee providing facilities, materials or equipment needed for public health, safety and welfare, and on the proposed use not unreasonably interfering with the public's enjoyment of the park, inciting violence or crime, or requiring extraordinary police expense as determined by the chief of police. A permit may be refused if the requested date and hour are already reserved.

Sec. 50-56 lets the director require public liability insurance from the permittee, who is personally liable for loss, damage or injury caused by negligence during the permitted activity.