Mesa, AZ Special Events & Permits: Park Event Permits (2026)

Mesa City Code Section 6-10-2 defines a SPECIAL EVENT as any temporary use, event, or activity in a park beyond the normal scope of visitor use, reserving an area or facility, conducting for-profit or nonprofit business, an activity that could affect public access, or a request for exemption from a park rule, and lists examples including sporting events, parades, festivals, weddings, concerts, rodeos, farmers markets, and political rallies. Section 6-10-6 requires a permit for any special event, for reserving a designated area or facility such as a ramada, sports field, court, or pool to the exclusion of others, and for any event expected to draw 10 or more people involving the sale, distribution, or service of food or beverage, which also needs a Maricopa County Health Department permit first.

If the event affects a right-of-way, the applicant must additionally obtain a Title 5, Chapter 1 license. Applications go to the Administrator on prescribed forms with the City's current fee schedule. The Administrator can deny a permit for an incomplete, fraudulent, or misleading application; an unpaid fee; a scheduling conflict with another reserved use; unreasonable interference with public health, safety, or recreation; unusual or burdensome City expense, including security costs; or a permit violation or revocation within the preceding 18 months. § 13-2904, require prompt cleanup of refuse and personal property, and prohibit disturbing neighboring residents.

A denial can be appealed to the Parks Director within 10 days, and the Director's decision is final. Permits are non-transferable, must be on-site during the event, and can be revoked at any time by the Director, Administrator, a park ranger, or a police officer.