Fort Lauderdale, FL Special Events & Permits: Street Fair Rules (2026)

Sec. 15-181 sorts outdoor events into three tiers. Minor events draw fewer than 501 people with no road closures, alcohol or music exemption and need only administrative approval. Intermediate events are under 501 people with a road closure, alcohol or music exemption, or between 501 and 5,000 people; these need city commission approval, as do major events over 5,000 people. Sec. 15-182 sets the filing window: 60 days ahead for minor events, 90 days for repeat intermediate events with two years of good standing, and 120 days for all other intermediate and major events.

Applicants file a detailed proposal describing the location, hours and dates, pay a fee set by the city manager, and, once approved, sign a city agreement before the event can proceed; no one may hold the event before that agreement and a certificate of insurance are delivered. Sec. 15-183 requires the agreement to include a $1,000,000 combined single-limit comprehensive general liability policy naming the city as additional insured, plus $500,000 in liquor liability coverage if alcohol is served, flameproof certificates for tents and canopies, sufficient sanitary facilities, and reimbursement for any police, fire or EMS staffing the city assigns. A 'minor outdoor activity' finding by the parks department, made with the risk manager, can waive the insurance requirement for genuinely small, low-impact gatherings.