Frequently Asked Questions

A special event permit is not required for events that take place on private property. Depending on the nature of the event, various permits may be required including the following:

• The Community Development Department may have requirements, please contact them at (619) 628-0858. 
• If you will have food sales please contact the San Diego County Health Department.
• If the food vendor is using open flame or cooking equipment, please contact Imperial Beach Fire-Rescue at (619) 628-1392.
• If you will have tents or canopies, please contact Imperial Beach Fire-Rescue at (619) 628-1392.
• If you are using amplified sound you must adhere to the City’s noise ordinance regarding hours of amplified sound and sound decibel limitations.

Events that are open to the general public and take place within the public right-of-way or are located within a park or on the beach would be coordinated through the special event permit process. Typically, these events require permits, licenses and approvals from several City departments depending on the size and nature of the special event. 

To initiate the special event permitting process, please contact the Parks, Recreation & Community Services Department. Please note the acceptance of your application should in no way be construed as final approval of your event. The City of Imperial Beach requires a complete event application be submitted at least 90 days in advance of the proposed event date. We encourage applicants to submit their application 6 to 9 months in advance to ensure a complete application is submitted by the deadline and ready to take to the City Council for approval at least 60 days prior to the event.

Once your application has been received you will be contacted to request any additional forms, permits and licenses that may be required. Copies of the application will be distributed to all city departments for review. A coordinating meeting may be held to clarify questions and ensure you are meeting all of the requirements of the special event permitting process. 

Yes. A certificate of general liability and additional insured Form CG2026 is required to hold event on City property. All vendors who participate in the event will need to be covered under the insurance and they must all obtain a business license or vendor fees will apply for a one day license. 

You will need to visit the Park and Beach Reservation section to obtain a permit.

All private parties with air jumps will need to obtain a park use permit.

A park use permit is required for groups of 25 people or more.

Personal filming or photography, including students for class projects, does not require a commercial film permit, however professional photographers and videographers are required to have a business license and obtain a permit.

Neighborhood block parties require a block party permit from the Parks, Recreation & Community Services Department. If the block party is being advertised and open to the public, you will require a special events permit.

No alcohol is allowed in the public right-of-way at any time.

The Imperial Beach City Council approves special event permit applications for any events held in Pier Plaza, Dunes Park, on the beach, and road closures. Applicants may apply to host four (4) special events per year, but are restricted to one permit per year in Pier Plaza, and one permit per year in Dunes Park.