St. Louis, MO Special Events & Permits: Park Event Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Trigger
- 100+ expected attendees
- Bond set by
- Director of Parks, Recreation and Forestry
- Bond types
- Surety, cash, or 3-person written assurance
- Penalty
- $25–$500 fine, misdemeanor
- Political events
- Same permit and bond rules apply
Summary
St. Louis requires a permit and bond for any park gathering of 100 or more people, covering damage repair, cleanup, and added police or traffic control costs.
Individuals, groups or organizations planning assemblies, meetings or gatherings in City parks at which attendance of one hundred or more persons is expected or solicited shall apply for a permit for the use of a designated area in the parks. Before issuance of a permit, a bond shall be posted in an amount to be determined by the Director of Parks sufficient to cover the repair of damages to the park fixtures and premises... and the expense incurred for additional policing and traffic control.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 11).
Full Breakdown
Anyone planning an assembly, meeting or gathering in a St. Louis city park where 100 or more people are expected must apply for a permit under St. Louis Revised Code § 22.40.010. Before the permit issues, the Director of Parks, Recreation and Forestry sets a bond to cover repair of park fixtures, turf, trees and shrubs, extraordinary cleanup costs, and added policing or traffic control. The bond may be a surety bond, cash bond, or written assurance from at least three responsible persons under § 22.40.020. If the park is left in good condition the bond is canceled; otherwise it pays for damage and cleanup. Political assemblies get the same permit and bond terms under § 22.40.030.
Violations & Fines
Failing to obtain a park assembly permit is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of $25 to $500 under § 22.40.040.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a small picnic in a St. Louis park?
What happens to my bond after the event?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in St. Louis
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