Special Event Permits

Special Event Permits

A Special Event Permit is required for any activity that falls outside of normal park use.

Activities Requiring a Special Event Permit

Examples of activities requiring a permit include, but are not limited to:

  • Use of amplified music

  • Public Address (PA) systems

  • Live bands or DJs

  • Bounce houses or inflatable attractions

  • Large tents (20' x 20' or larger)

  • Outside catering services or food trucks

  • Events involving the sale of food, merchandise, or other items

  • Races, tournaments, sporting events, or organized competitions

  • Events where admission fees are charged or tickets are sold

  • Weddings and wedding ceremonies (not held in Sunkist room, group picnic, or amphitheater)

Application Process and Fees

A completed Special Event Permit application and a non-refundable $25 application fee must be submitted to the park at least 30 days prior to the event date.

Applications submitted fewer than 30 days before the event may be subject to an increased application fee of up to $100.

Additional activity fees may apply for events that:

  • Require exclusive use of park areas

  • Impact normal park operations or visitor use

  • Include races, tournaments, competitions, or other organized activities

Activity fees are determined based on factors such as:

  • Event size and attendance

  • Duration of the event

  • Location within the park

  • Staffing requirements

  • Potential impacts to park resources

Any special requests requiring park personnel support will be billed based on staff classification and hours worked.

Required Application Materials

The following items must be submitted for permit consideration:

  1. Special Event Permit Application (DPR 246)

  2. Special Event Permit Application Supplement (DPR 246A)

  3. Certificate of Insurance (DPR 169A)

  4. Non-refundable $25 application fee payable to the California Department of Parks and Recreation

  5. Supplemental event information as outlined below

Submission Information

For California Citrus State Historic Park Events Only

Applications may be submitted by mail or in person to:

California State Parks
Lake Perris Sector Office
17801 Lake Perris Drive
Perris, CA 92571

Event Information Required

Please provide the following details with your application:

Event Description

  • Purpose of the event

  • Event location

  • Estimated attendance

  • Event schedule, including setup and teardown times

Site Plan

Include a map or diagram showing:

  • Temporary structures (canopies, tents, jumpers, stages, tables, etc.)

  • Vendor locations

  • Activity areas

Note: Stakes are not permitted. Temporary structures must be secured using approved methods such as sandbags or water barrels.

Emergency Access Plan

Provide an emergency access and evacuation plan for the event.

Public Safety Coordination

If coordination with the State Fire Marshal, local fire agencies, or law enforcement is required, a California State Park Peace Officer may be required to attend the event.

Sales and Concessions

Provide a list of all items to be sold. California State Parks may require payment of 10%–25% of gross receipts, depending on the nature of the activity.

Traffic and Parking Plan

Include:

  • Anticipated vehicle traffic

  • Parking arrangements

  • Shuttle operations, if applicable

Access to Restricted Areas

If access beyond locked gates or into secured areas is requested, provide:

  • Vehicle descriptions

  • License plate numbers

  • Driver names

Waste Management and Sanitation

Depending on the size and nature of the event, portable restrooms and dumpsters may be required at the permittee's expense. Locations will be determined in consultation with park management. All facilities must be removed promptly following the event.

Parking Area Use

If parking lots or parking spaces are reserved or used exclusively for the event, the permittee will be responsible for paying applicable parking fees for all spaces utilized.

Insurance Requirements

Proof of insurance must be submitted using Form DPR 169A. The park hosting the event must be listed as the certificate holder.

Insurance requirements and coverage limits are outlined in the Terms and Conditions section of the DPR 246 application (see pages 16–17).

Special Event Permit applications cannot be processed without proof of insurance.

Questions

For questions regarding events at Chino Hills State Park, please call 951-940-5600.

For events at other California State Parks, please contact the park directly.

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