Novi, MI Special Events & Permits: Park Event Permits (2026)

Section 25-82(a) makes it unlawful to post handbills or advertisements, run advertising sound equipment, hold a public assemblage, hold an exhibition, or sell or offer goods in a park without first securing a permit from the department of parks and recreation, and anyone in a park must produce that permit on request (§ 25-82(a)-(b)). No permit is needed for an event the city or the parks department itself sponsors (§ 25-82(c)). An applicant files with the department, pays an application fee set by council resolution, and discloses the applicant's contact information, the day and hours requested, the specific part of the park to be used, the nature of the activity, and any variance sought from the article's park-use rules (§ 25-83).

The director evaluates the request against five factors: unreasonable interference with the public's enjoyment of the park, interference with public health, welfare, safety or recreation, anticipated violence, crime or disorderly conduct, extraordinary or burdensome expense to the city, and whether the requested date and area is already reserved (§ 25-84). The applicant may also be required to file a liability insurance policy naming the city, in an amount the city attorney approves, that cannot be cancelled without ten days' written notice (§ 25-85). The department must notify the applicant of its decision within ten days of the application, stating reasons for any denial (§ 25-88), and the permit is formally issued by the city clerk once any required insurance is on file (§ 25-89).