Tonawanda, NY Special Events & Permits: Street Fair Rules (2026)

Section 215-24.16.E creates a temporary use permit track separate from the outdoor dining permit in Subsection D, aimed at special events or other temporary uses of outdoor areas tied to a commercial use. An applicant files with the Planning and Development Department and must attach a description of the event with dates and times, the maximum number of employees on a shift, the maximum seating capacity or expected attendance, a recycling and waste management plan, a description of any mechanical equipment, any temporary signage, a description of anticipated music or noise, expected parking demand, a site plan or aerial image marking every proposed activity, and copies of any other required county or state permits such as an Erie County Health Department permit or fire inspection certificate.

The Director of Planning and Development reviews the application against a list of harm-based criteria, including whether the event would depreciate adjacent property values, create a health or safety hazard, alter the neighborhood's character, disrupt traffic flow, harm pedestrian safety, or generate a nuisance through noise or odor, and may consult any other Town department or review board. The Director can grant, grant with conditions, or deny the permit. Once granted, a permit is valid only for the specific dates and times approved and cannot exceed 30 days, and no single applicant, property or use may receive more than four temporary use permits in any twelve-month period.