Pontiac, MI Special Events & Permits: Street Fair Rules (2026)

Pontiac's Zoning Ordinance separates event permitting into minor and major temporary uses, and Section 2.542(B)(2)(b) defines a major temporary use as one open to the public that expects 200 or more attendees, or that the Planning Division decides needs added safety coordination with police and fire. The ordinance lists specific triggers that automatically classify an event as major: 200 or more expected attendees, three or more mobile food or commercial vendors, alcohol consumption on premises, temporary concert stages, multiple or large entertainment areas, fireworks, or parades, all typical features of a street fair or festival.

Subsection F requires the application to go to the Planning Division at least 60 days before the event, and beyond the information required for minor uses it must include the size, number, and location of all signs, copies of any state, county, or City licenses such as mobile food vendor and business licenses, and the expected attendance. Major-use applicants must also submit approval letters from the Oakland County Health Department, Building Department, Sheriff's Department, Emergency Medical Services, and the Pontiac Fire Department, plus copies of an insurance policy naming the City as an additional insured for $1,000,000.00 covering the event.

Subsection F.3 requires review and approval from the Fire Department, Police, and the Planning and Building Divisions before a major temporary use permit issues, and subsection F.4 makes the applicant responsible for reimbursing the City for police presence, traffic control, and cleanup costs. As with minor uses, it is unlawful under subsection C to hold the event before the City issues the permit.