Renton, WA Special Events & Permits: Street Fair Rules (2026)

RMC 5-22-2 names carnivals and fairs directly among the activities that qualify as a special event, defined as any gathering on public property, rights-of-way, or private property that invites considerable public participation and may affect transportation, public services, or public safety. 5 covers only sales conducted by an existing business, such as a holiday or grand-opening sale, not a multi-vendor fair or carnival. C lists conditions the Special Events Committee can attach specifically relevant to fairs: compliance with health and sanitary regulations, requirements for separate garbage and recycling containers and cleanup of City property, restrictions on the number and types of vehicles, animals or structures, restrictions on the sale and consumption of alcohol, and restrictions on amplified sound consistent with the noise ordinance.

5 lets the Committee exempt fair vendors from the business license requirements of RMC 5-5 if their activities otherwise conform to zoning and safety rules. RMC 5-22-11 requires a cleaning and restoration deposit before the permit issues, refunded only if the fairgrounds are cleaned and restored to their prior condition; unrestored sites are billed for the City's actual cleanup cost.