Fayetteville, NC Special Events & Permits: Park Event Permits (2026)

Section 18-11 requires a permit before any publicized activity that falls outside the parks and recreation department's own programmed or supervised events can be scheduled at a city park or recreation area. The application goes to the parks and recreation director and must state the applicant's name and address, the sponsoring person or organization, the requested day and hours, which park or portion of it is wanted, an estimate of anticipated attendance, and any other information the director reasonably needs to decide. The director must issue the permit once satisfied on five points: the activity will not unreasonably interfere with the public's general enjoyment of the park, will not unreasonably interfere with public health, welfare, safety, or recreation, is not reasonably anticipated to incite violence, crime, or disorderly conduct, will not require unusual or burdensome city expense or police work, and the requested time slot is not already reserved.

If the director refuses, the section requires written reasons within two days, and the applicant can appeal in writing to the city manager within two days of that refusal; the city manager's decision, reviewed under the same five standards, is final. A permit binds the holder to every park rule and applicable ordinance as if written into the permit itself, and the holder is liable for any loss, damage, or injury caused by their own negligence, agreeing to hold the city harmless. The city manager or designee can revoke a permit outright on a finding of a rule or ordinance violation, or for good cause shown, at any time after issuance.