• Guidelines and regulations for producing a special event in Columbus
• Coordination of city services for special events
• Permitted use of parks for events
• Securing city permission to conduct alcohol sales at public events
• New event consultation
• To get more information about Columbus Recreation and Parks events

The Columbus Recreation and Parks Special Events Office annually publishes a Special Events Planning Guide that assists event coordinators by compiling all permit applications, a directory of city department contacts and a overview of city regulations into one, step-by-step manual.  The information in this guide is available on-line @ EVENT PLANNING GUIDE.  Although the guide was specifically developed for larger downtown events requiring the use of public property and City services, we hope it will also be useful to community organizations planning events within Columbus Parks.  The purpose of the Special Events Planning Guide is threefold:

1) To clearly state, in a simple format, the most common requirements of the City of Columbus

2) To define procedurally how a sponsor or producer should obtain approval for the various components of an event

3) To establish a reasonable time frame in which a sponsor or producer is expected to work

Special events present a unique opportunity to invigorate community spirit and contribute substantial economic and social benefits to our community. In working toward our common goal of delivering quality programming at a reasonable cost, it is important that event producers and the City of Columbus cooperate and communicate through all phases of event planning and implementation. It is the responsibility of each promoter / applicant to know all pertinent city codes and departmental regulations before undertaking an event in the City of Columbus. This document is only a guide, we cannot print every city policy or regulation. If you require further information on specific procedures, requirements, or services, please contact the appropriate division representative listed in this guide. The complete guide can be downloaded including all forms.