Rock County, WI Special Events & Permits: Park Event Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Default access
- Park facilities: first come, first served
- Reservation policy
- Set by Public Works Committee, Sec. 5.02(17)(K)
- Alcohol at events
- Temporary permit from Parks Manager required
- Sound equipment
- Written Manager consent needed, Sec. 5.02(5)
- Cancellation power
- Manager may cancel for weather/trail conditions
Summary
Rock County park facilities are available first come, first served unless reserved in advance under Sec. 5.02(17)(K). The Public Works Committee sets the reservation policy balancing advance planning with the public's right to use the facilities, and the Parks Manager keeps a written copy of that current policy on file.
Park facilities shall be available on a first come, first served, basis unless reserved. From time to time the Public Works Committee shall establish reasonable reservation policies balancing the needs of parties to plan activities in advance with the rights of the entire public to use such facilities. The Manager shall maintain a written copy of the current reservation policy.
Full Breakdown
Sec. " The Parks Manager must maintain a written copy of the current reservation policy, giving event organizers a reference point for how to book a shelter, ball diamond or other facility ahead of time. Several other Sec. 02 provisions bear directly on planning a gathering: Sec. 02(4) requires the Manager's express written consent before distributing or posting handbills or advertising in a park, Sec. 02(5) requires the Manager's written consent to use sound equipment, loudspeakers or a microphone, and Sec. 02(16) allows fermented malt beverages and wine at parks only under a temporary permit issued by the Parks Manager (or, for the 4-H Fairgrounds, by the Agriculture and Extension Education Committee), with fees the Public Works and Agriculture and Extension Education committees may set to defray park clean-up costs.
Sec. 02(17)(B) further lets the Manager cancel or delay any event because of soft trail conditions, inclement weather, or other conditions likely to damage the park or endanger participants. Violations of the reservation and related permit rules are enforced under Sec. 02(27) by the Manager, the Rock County Sheriff's Office, or DNR Wardens, with forfeitures under Sec. 02(26) referenced to Resolution 08-8A-054 and each day of a continuing violation a separate offense.
Violations & Fines
Using a reserved county park facility without a reservation, or holding an event without required Manager consent for amplified sound, advertising or alcohol permits, exposes an organizer to a forfeiture under Sec. 5.02(26), referenced to Resolution 08-8A-054, with each day a violation continues counted separately. The Manager, Sheriff's Office or DNR Wardens enforce under Sec. 5.02(27).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I reserve a Rock County park facility for an event?
Do I need a separate permit to serve alcohol at a park event?
Can I use a PA system or loudspeaker at my reserved event?
Can Rock County cancel my scheduled park event?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Rock County
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