Grand Junction, CO Special Events & Permits: Street Fair Rules (2026)

GJMC § 12.24.100 requires that the layout for a special use permit or recurring activity permit event in the Downtown Shopping Park be approved by the Downtown Development Authority at least 10 days before the first day of the event, and it flatly bans generators anywhere on Main Street. A special use permit covers unique or charitable Downtown Park uses lasting three days or fewer and can be issued to the event's sponsor rather than each vendor (GJMC § 12.24.020); a recurring activity permit covers a unique or charitable use held repeatedly through the year and likewise can be granted to the sponsoring organization.

Fees are $100.00 for a special event permit and $200.00 for a recurring activity permit (GJMC § 12.24.030(a)(3), (4)); a recurring activity permit runs one year while a special event permit lasts only as long as the activity itself (GJMC § 12.24.040(a)(4), (5)). Organizers must apply to the DDA with sponsor contact information, a description of the merchandise or activity, proof of a City sales tax license, and liability insurance of at least $150,000 per person and $600,000 per occurrence naming the City and DDA as additional insureds (GJMC § 12.24.040(b)).

Any street or sidewalk closure still needs the City Engineer's separate right-of-way closure approval, and the DDA Director must coordinate with the Engineer on pedestrian restrictions (GJMC § 12.24.040(b)(14)). If the event includes live or recorded music, the application must disclose the time, place and manner, and the organizer must cover any ASCAP licensing fees (GJMC § 12.24.040(b)(18)). During the event, permittees must follow every lawful DDA or police order to relocate or clear the area, and the DDA can summarily suspend the permit for excessive noise or a violation (GJMC §§ 12.24.070(c), 12.24.110).