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1. How do I know if I need another permit within the City of Green Bay?

• If you plan to have alcohol at your event, it must be included on your application and you must apply for a Picnic Permit through the Clerks Department. 
• If you are having your event in a parking lot, you may need a Temporary Use Permit. Please call (920)-448-3006 for clarification. 
• If you plan to have amplified sound outside of the approved ordinance (7am – 10pm) then you must contact our Green Bay Police Department for a Noise Permit at (920) 448-3217. 
• If you plan to use tents you may need a Tent Permit from the Department of Community and Economic Development. Review the Tent Permit Guide (PDF).
• MEMBRANE STRUCTURES ONLY / (not open tents) 
  • You will be erecting a tent/membrane structure over 400 sq. ft. (Permit Required) 
• OPEN TENTS ONLY (if you meet any of the following) 
  • You will be erecting an open tent over 700 sq. ft. (Permit Required) 
  • You will be erecting smaller open tents directly adjacent to each other where the aggregate area of the smaller tents erected is greater than 700 sq. ft. and there is no 1ft. separation distance to the front or rear of them from an adjacent structure and/or other tents. (Permit Required) 
  • You will be erecting separated open tents where the aggregate area is greater than 700 sq. ft. This layout requires a minimum 12 ft. separation distance between them and other tents and/or structures. (Permit Required) 
• ELECTRICAL PERMIT 
  • You will be utilizing electricity in the tent or for the event. (Permit Required) 
  • Please see the Tent Permit Guide (PDF) for specifics and contact information.

2. What is the difference between the special event permit application fee and other fees?

• If your event is considered a special event, you will pay a special event permit application fee.
• If you reserve a public space like City Deck, a park, or trail then you will also pay a reservation fee to the Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department.   
• If your event requires any City of Green Bay services including but not limited to: Risk, Police, Fire, Public Works, or Community & Economic Development Departments then you will receive an invoice directly from the department that serviced your event.   

3. Why are there deadlines and fees involved with special events?

• Special events taking place in the City of Green Bay are supported by the same staff that serve the citizens of Green Bay.  Timely applications allow for planning and scheduling of staff as well as access to equipment and supplies.  
• Special event committee members and support staff work to coordinate your event which can include supplies, equipment, coordination of staff, their wages and city services. 

4. Does the City of Green Bay have an ordinance for special events?

Yes, please read Chapter 10 Article IX of the Green Bay Municipal Code.  The City of Green Bay also follows State of Wisconsin and Federal Government regulations and industry standards.

5. Should I contact the Special Events Coordinator before submitting my application?

You are encouraged to contact the events coordinator prior to submitting your application and at any stage in the planning process!  920-448-3006.