Bellingham, WA Special Events & Permits: Parklets (2026)
Key Facts
- What qualifies
- platform in a former parking space
- Permit required
- BMC 13.14.030, public works dept
- Standard term
- up to one year
- Insurance
- $1M/occurrence liability required
- Fees
- admin fee plus annual use fee
Summary
Bellingham defines a parklet as a platform built in a former curbside parking space with seating, and requires a temporary right-of-way use permit from public works before anyone installs one in the city.
"Parklet" means a platform constructed in a former curbside parking space that includes seating and/or other amenities. ... a temporary right-of-way use permit is required for any temporary use of a right-of-way that interferes with the free use, by the public, of such right-of-way. Such a permit is required for improved and unimproved rights-of-way.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 2026-06-015, passed June 1, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Chapter 13.14 BMC governs parklets in Whatcom County's largest city. The code defines a parklet as a platform constructed in a former curbside parking space that includes seating and/or other amenities. Because installing one interferes with the public's free use of the right-of-way, BMC 13.14.030 requires a temporary right-of-way use permit from the public works director before construction, backed by a site plan, proof of insurance, and an administrative fee. Permits run up to one year and can be revoked for false information on the application, exceeding the permitted scope, or unreasonable impacts on public health, safety or city operations.
Violations & Fines
Operating a parklet without an approved right-of-way use permit violates BMC 13.14.030; the city may summarily revoke a permit issued on false information or when conditions are ignored, on written notice to the permittee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a parklet in Bellingham?
How long does a Bellingham parklet permit last?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Bellingham
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