Special Events

A Special Event, as outlined in City Ordinance No. 2017-8, is defined as an event, gathering, or organized activity, which is open to the public and may impact public safety. In addition, an event may be considered a Special Event if a mobile food provider is present, if alcohol is sold and/or consumed, and if more than 90 attendees are expected.

Per the determination of the City Manager, given the city’s limited resources and time necessary to review and issue special event permits, no more than 4 special event permits may be obtained by a special event holder to one location within a 12-month period. 

There are many different types of special events; some examples are:
  • celebrations
  • church processions
  • concerts
  • entertainment
  • exhibitions
  • fairs
  • festivals
  • historical reenactments
  • movies
  • organized races
  • pageants
  • parades
  • pub crawls
  • social gatherins
  • walk-a-thons

or similar events occurring in, on or utilizing public space or which impact a public space to an extent that the public’s use of the public space is significantly curtailed or impeded.

Apply for a Special Event Permit

If you'd like to obtain a special event permit, the following steps must be completed at least 45 days (but not more than 125 days) before the anticipated event date:

  1. Complete and submit the online Special Event Permit Application.
  2. Submit payment for the $75 special event permit fee.
  3. Submit payment for facility rental deposit & fees, if applicable.

Required Documents

All special event permit applications must include the following attachments:

  • Permission letter(s) and/or agreement(s) to use property and parking lot(s) for the event.
  • Liability insurance with the City of Seabrook listed as a certificate holder
  • Emergency plan (download template)
  • Site map of the event, including but not limited to;
    • Overall event layout
    • Parking lot(s)
    • Location(s) of:
      • First aid stations
      • Generators
      • Tents
      • Party rentals (bounce house, rock wall, etc.)
      • Food vendors
      • Bars/Drink stations
      • Lighting
      • Stage and sound equipment
      • Portable restrooms and handwashing stations
      • Temporary signage

Application Review

After you have submitted your completed Special Event Permit Application and paid the $75 special event permit fee, your application will be submitted for review by an internal committee.

Applicants may be asked to schedule a meeting with City staff regarding the event and/or to provide additional information about the event.

If you have questions or would like to check on the status of your submitted application, please email the Tourism and Special Events Coordinator.

Electronic Message Board Requests

To request the use of the City of Seabrook's electronic message boards, please complete the online Electronic Message Board Request form.