Apply for a Special Event Permit

Kirkland Special Events Logo.png

Thank you for choosing Kirkland as your event destination!

The City of Kirkland requires a permit for any festival, concert, parade, athletic race, walk, ride, swim or other publicly attended activity, which is to be held on public property. The permit requirement also applies to the same type of activities if they are held on private property and directly impact normal public use of parks and/or streets within the area of the event. 

We understand that a great deal of detail and planning goes into every event – whether it’s a marathon, concert or festival so our Special Event Team is available to help guide you throughout the permit application process.

Please note, several types of permits are available. If you're hosting a private gathering that includes a specific guest list, and will not involve any advertising to the general public, you may be able to apply for a Facility Use Permit. Please review the Parks Facility Rental page for more information.   

Again, we thank you for choosing Kirkland as the host community for your event. We look forward to working with you!

Special Event

A Special Event Permit is required for events that cause the closure or limited use of streets, sidewalks, public parking, parks or other public venues normally accessible by the general public. 

To apply for a Special Event Permit, follow these steps:

Step 1.Understand the requirements

Step 2.Request a date and venue

You must submit an Event Interest Form in order to request a date and venue. Forms are accepted 6 to 13 calendar months in advance of an event. Your request will be reviewed and staff will contact you within ten business days regarding the status of your request. You must wait until you receive confirmation that your request has been accepted before submitting a permit application.

Complete the Event Interest Form

Step 3.Gather supporting documents

Prepare required documentation:  

  • Logistics/Production Timeline
  • Site Map
  • Traffic Control Map (if applicable)
  • Beer/Wine Garden Interior Map (if applicable)
  • Route/Course Map (if applicable)

Step 4.Complete the application

Once you receive confirmation your requested date and venue are available, you can complete the application.

Complete the Special Event Permit Application 

Step 5.Pay the application fee

The non-refundable $100.00 Application Fee can be mailed or hand-delivered to:

     City of Kirkland
     Special Events
     123 Fifth Avenue
     Kirkland, WA 98033 

Step 6.We will contact you

Once the application is received and payment is made, staff will contact you regarding next steps.