Special Events

What is a Special Event?

The City of Boise defines a special event as any single gathering or series of gatherings for which there is extensive planning. Examples of a planned special event include, but are not limited to, an outdoor concert, parade, festival, block party, any of a number of sporting events (such as a marathon, bike race or running event), or other organized activity conducted for a common or collective purpose. 

Where is a Special Event Permit Required? 

A special event permit is required for any event on public property that is expected to have more than one thousand (1,000) people attend or any event that requires extraordinary resources including but not limited to alcohol compliance, security, emergency services and road closures/traffic control.

_{*Per Boise City Code, every planned special event on public property that has a projected attendance of more than one thousand (1,000) people is expected to require extraordinary resources.} 

When is the Special Event Application Due? 

Applications for a planned special event permit shall be made to the City Clerk at least forty-five (45) days, but not more than three hundred sixty-five (365) days prior to the event.  

_{**Submitting a Special Event Application does NOT reserve, hold or guarantee dates or venues, nor imply any approval of the proposed concept or event.} 

How Do I Pay for the Special Event Application Fee? 

All application and processing fees are due at time of submission via check by mail or check/credit card in person at Boise City Hall (150 N Capitol Blvd, Boise, ID 83702). Online and/or over the phone payments cannot be processed. 

Who Presents at the Special Events Team Meetings? 

The applicant shall, when notified by the City Clerk's Office, attend the Special Events Team meeting and participate in the Special Event Team’s review if the event meets one or more of the criteria listed below: 

• Event is new to the City of Boise
• Event organizer has changed
• There will be 1,000 or more participants
• Roads or portions of roads will be closed
• Alcohol will be served

Boise City Code provides the framework and guidance for issuing Special Event Permits and can be viewed online.

Additional questions should be directed to the Boise City Clerk’s office at specialevents@cityofboise.org or 208-972-8150.