Clifton, NJ Special Events & Permits: Park Event Permits (2026)

Section 351-5 of Chapter 351 lays out Clifton's application and standards process for special-event permits in City parks. The application must include the applicant's name and address, the sponsoring person, corporation or association if any, the requested day and hours, the specific park or portion of it, and any other information the City finds reasonably necessary. Subsection B sets five findings the City must make before issuing a permit: that the activity will not unreasonably interfere with general public enjoyment of the park, will not detract from public health, welfare, safety or recreation, is not reasonably anticipated to involve violence, crime or disorderly conduct, will not entail extraordinary or burdensome police expense, and that the requested facility has not already been reserved for that date and hour.

If Clifton denies a permit, § 351-5C requires the City to state its reasons in writing, and an aggrieved applicant may appeal to the City by serving written notice on the City Clerk within five days of the refusal. Permits are mandatory for organized play on ballfields, tennis courts, basketball courts and similar recreation areas under § 351-5F, and § 351-5G lets the City revoke any permit for a violation of park rules or ordinances, or for other good cause shown.