Winston-Salem, NC Special Events & Permits: Street Fair Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Single-event permit fee
- $100.00
- Filing deadline
- 45 days before event
- Standard event hours
- 8:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.
- Downtown event hours
- 8:00 a.m.–midnight
- Vendor permits inside event
- controlled by permit holder only
Summary
Winston-Salem street fairs and festivals need an economic development permit, and every food, craft or merchandise vendor inside the event must operate under the permit holder's control rather than a separate license.
No sale of arts, crafts, food or other tangible items shall be permitted within the street or sidewalk area during the special event except under the auspices and control of the entity receiving the permit. Such entity shall be fully responsible for compliance with rules, regulations and ordinances of the city with respect to the special event being conducted pursuant to a permit issued thereunder. No vendor's permit shall be required for any exhibitor or vendor participating in a special event permitted by this section...
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 102 | Personnel: Supplement 96 | Water and Sewer: Supplement 56 | Solid Waste: Supplement 15).
Full Breakdown
Organizers file with the office of economic development at least 45 days ahead, paying $100 for a single event, $200 for a 2-4 event series, or $300 for a series of five or more. The application must include an affidavit confirming every resident and business in the event footprint was contacted. Inside the closed street or sidewalk area, only vendors operating under the permit holder's control may sell food, crafts or merchandise; standalone vendor's permits don't apply there while the event runs. Events not in the central business district run 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.; downtown events may run until midnight.
Violations & Fines
A violation of § 74-284 is a class 3 misdemeanor under G.S. 14-4, punishable by a fine of up to $500.00.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a vendor sell at a Winston-Salem street fair without going through the organizer?
How far in advance must a street fair permit be filed?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Winston-Salem
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