A Special Event Permit is required when an event producer plans a celebration, festival, fair, carnival or similar event which is held wholly or partially upon public property (park or beach facility) or a street, and when the event represents a significant impact to the normal use of the property, causing variations and disruptions to the normal flow of traffic, public access, etc.
For Special Events at Moonlight Beach, certain conditions apply. Proposed events for usage of Moonlight Beach during the peak summer months (Memorial Day through Labor Day) must have City Council approval. If your activity meets any of the following criteria, you must apply for a Special Event Permit:
- Greater than 500 expected attendees;
- Greater than 30% usage of the Moonlight Beach facilities area;
- Any use of live or recorded amplified music;
- The inclusion of five or more activity booths;
- The use of a stage or scaffolding; and/or
- Aquatic events
Moonlight Beach Overlook, J Street Viewpoint and Encinitas Viewpoint Parks are available for Special Ceremonies the first and third Saturday of the month throughout the year (excluding holidays). Special Ceremonies include weddings, memorials and other ceremonies as approved by the Parks and Recreation Department. One Special Ceremony per day. Limited to a three hour block from 8am to 10pm. Maximum number of participants varies from 50-75 depending on site.
Submission of permit application does not guarantee approval. Special Events may be subject to City Council approval. Please allow up to 90 days for Special Event and Special Ceremony Permit processing. PLEASE PLAN ACCORDINGLY. For more information or to request a Special Event or Special Ceremony Permit application please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at (760) 633-2740. Applications are also available on the web by clicking the link: Special Event and Special Ceremony Permit Application
Click here for helpful answers to frequently asked questions about facility use permits.