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

The permit process in Section 27-4 has three moving parts. First, the applicant files a facility use permit application at the parks and recreation office. Second, the parks and recreation director reviews it and grants the permit if the facility is available and the activity is deemed beneficial to the citizens of Margate, which is a discretionary standard, not a checklist. Third, copies of all permits are kept on file with the police department. A facility that has not been reserved is available to Margate residents on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Section 27-3 sets facility rules that attach to a reservation. At the teen center and David Park Pavilion, 95 per cent of any group's membership must be Margate residents, an authorized representative signs for the key and no copies can be made, and groups are liable for damage and responsible for lights, air conditioning, public address systems and locking up. Occupancy is capped by the fire marshal at 54 persons for the pavilion and 222 for the teen center. Alcoholic beverages there need approval of the city manager.

On ballfields and concession stands, 95 per cent of a group's membership must be Margate residents, except the combined Margate-North Lauderdale Football Club, and the field lights are run by parks staff only. Tennis courts take reservations only for tournaments, and play is limited to one hour when others are waiting. Royal Palm Pool is for residents and their guests. Section 27-7 provides that fees for all parks and recreation facilities and services are set by resolution of the city commission. Section 27-8 requires the governing board of any sports league using a city facility, court or field to see that adults associated with the league pass state and national criminal background checks, repeated every three years, at the league's own cost.