Sherman, TX Special Events & Permits: Street Fair Rules (2026)

Sherman's street fair rules turn on the term special event. Section 3.10.001(b) defines it as any occasion, including fairs, shows, exhibitions, citywide celebrations and festivals, within a specifically defined area of the city for a time period not to exceed the period of the event. In the central business district it is unlawful to place merchandise, food, signs, potted plants, benches, tables or chairs within the unobstructed pedestrian area of the public way, an area at least 36 inches wide between the curb and the property line that is completely unobstructed. No merchandise can be sold from the public way unless allowed through a special event. The defense to prosecution covers a participant in a special event who is vending on the premises designated for it, a vendor transacting official government business, and a grantee of a city contract to operate a concession on designated public property.

Food trucks have their own limits in § 6.02.010. A mobile food unit cannot operate on a central business district street unless the street has been closed for a special event approved by the city council, and cannot operate on a sidewalk. From 12:00 a.m. Sunday to 5:00 p.m. Friday, a mobile food unit cannot operate in a public park or publicly owned lot unless it has been designated as the site for a council-approved special event. Units in those lots must vacate by 12:00 a.m. each night and not return before 6:00 a.m.

Alcohol at a festival is tied to a council order. Under § 4.14.061, drinking on a public street, sidewalk or alley is allowed only where the street was closed for a special event by council motion and order, the boundaries are marked with signs indicating no alcohol beyond them, the dispenser provides a total minimum of two (2) security officers, and the dispenser gives the city a certificate of insurance naming the city as additional insured with commercial general liability coverage of no less than $1,000,000.00. Flea markets with multiple vendors need one flea market permit if the responsible person lists each vendor and address (§ 4.08.007(a)).