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

Under Tucson Code Sec. 21-4, anyone seeking a permit, license, or reservation for a park area or facility must submit a written request to the director/district administrator stating the park name, date, time, and full details of the proposed use. A permit is specifically required for: picnics, outings or gatherings sponsored by an organization or individuals and attended by 200 or more persons; special events such as contests, exhibits, dramatic performances, fairs, circuses, jumping castles, or musical events with public amplification; sale of alcoholic beverages by concessionaires at city golf courses, Reid Park Zoo, and Hi Corbett Field; sale or distribution of food or beverages to 10 or more people (a separate Pima County Health Department permit is also required where applicable, though free distribution of prepackaged food needs no city permit); solicitation or advertising to the public; and exclusive reservation of any park facility.

The director must find the activity will not unreasonably interfere with public enjoyment of the park, will not harm public health, safety or welfare, is not anticipated to incite violence or disorder, will not create burdensome police expense (the sponsor pays extra security costs if required), that the space is not already reserved for that day and hour, and that required vendor or fair fees have been paid per the fee schedule set by mayor and council. If denied, the director must notify the applicant in writing within 30 days of the reasons; the applicant may appeal in writing within 14 days to the city manager, who must rule within 14 days.

Permit holders are bound by all park rules, must carry the permit form at all times in the park, and are liable for any loss, damage or injury caused by their own negligence. The director may revoke a permit for any Code, state statute, or park rule violation, or for good cause, and unused reservations become void if the area is not occupied within 30 minutes of the start time.