How to Apply for Park Permits in Long Beach

Long Beach, California, is home to over 120 parks spanning more than 2,500 acres of green space, from serene coastal trails to bustling community recreation centers. Whether you're planning a family picnic, a wedding under the trees, a youth sports tournament, or a cultural festival, securing a park permit is a mandatory step to ensure your event complies with city regulations, protects public resources, and avoids fines or cancellations. The process of applying for a park permit in Long Beach may seem complex at first, but with the right guidance, it becomes a streamlined and manageable task. This comprehensive guide walks you through every phase—from understanding eligibility and permit types to submitting your application, paying fees, and preparing for your event. By the end of this tutorial, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to successfully obtain a park permit in Long Beach, whether you’re a first-time user or a seasoned event planner.

Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for a park permit in Long Beach follows a structured process designed to balance public access with event safety and environmental preservation. Below is a detailed, chronological breakdown of each step required to secure your permit.

Step 1: Determine the Type of Permit You Need

Long Beach Parks, Recreation and Marine Department offers several categories of permits, each tailored to specific activities. Choosing the correct type prevents delays and ensures your application is processed efficiently.

• Special Event Permit: Required for gatherings involving more than 50 people, amplified sound, temporary structures (tents, stages), alcohol service, or commercial activity (e.g., food vendors, merchandise sales).
• Picnic Permit: For groups of 25–50 people using designated picnic areas. No amplified sound, alcohol, or commercial vendors allowed.
• Wedding Permit: Specifically for marriage ceremonies held in parks. Includes use of a designated ceremony site, seating, and decorations. No reception or catering allowed unless combined with a Special Event Permit.
• Sports and Recreation Permit: For organized sports leagues, tournaments, or training sessions. Applies to fields, courts, or facilities requiring reservation.
• Community Organization Permit: For nonprofit or civic groups hosting educational, cultural, or public service events with no admission fee or commercial activity.
• Commercial Film/Photography Permit: For professional photo shoots, commercials, or film productions. Includes equipment use and crew size restrictions.

Review the official permit classifications on the City of Long Beach Parks website to match your activity. Misclassifying your event can lead to application rejection or additional fees.

Step 2: Confirm Park Availability and Eligibility

Not all parks accept permits for all activities. Some parks are designated for passive use only, while others have restrictions based on environmental sensitivity, historical significance, or proximity to residential zones.

Use the Long Beach Park Reservation System online portal to search for available parks by name, location, or facility type. Filter results by your event date, expected attendance, and required amenities (e.g., restrooms, parking, electricity, grills). Note that popular venues like Shoreline Village, Rancho Los Alamitos, and El Dorado Park are often booked months in advance.

Additionally, verify that your event complies with park-specific rules:

• No open flames except in designated fire pits or grills.
• Alcohol is prohibited in most parks unless a special permit is obtained and security measures are in place.
• Amplified sound must end by 10 p.m. on weekdays and 11 p.m. on weekends.
• Structures over 100 square feet require engineering approval.

If you're unsure whether your chosen park allows your activity, contact the Parks Permit Office directly via email or in-person consultation.

Step 3: Gather Required Documentation

Before submitting your application, prepare the following documents:

• Completed Application Form: Available online or at the Parks Permit Office (301 W. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802).
• Event Plan: Include date, time, expected attendance, activity schedule, layout map, and list of vendors or participants.
• Proof of Insurance: A Certificate of Liability Insurance naming the City of Long Beach as an additional insured. Minimum coverage: $1,000,000 per occurrence. Acceptable policies must be issued by a licensed California insurer.
• Government-Issued Photo ID: For the primary applicant or authorized representative.
• Business License: Required if you are a commercial vendor or operate a for-profit event.
• Alcohol Service Permit: If serving alcohol, you must also obtain a permit from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) and submit a copy with your application.
• Nonprofit Status Documentation: If applying under a nonprofit organization, provide IRS 501(c)(3) determination letter.

Missing documentation is the most common cause of application delays. Double-check your packet before submission.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Applications can be submitted in three ways:

1. Online: Visit the City of Long Beach Parks Permit Portal at www.longbeach.gov/parks. Create an account, select your permit type, upload documents, and pay fees securely.
2. In Person: Visit the Parks Permit Office during business hours (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.). Bring printed copies of all documents and payment.
3. By Mail: Send completed forms and documents to:

   
   City of Long Beach – Parks, Recreation and Marine

   
   Permit Office

   
   301 W. Ocean Blvd, Suite 100

   
   Long Beach, CA 90802

Online submission is strongly recommended for faster processing and real-time status tracking. In-person and mail submissions may take 3–5 additional business days for review.

Step 5: Pay Required Fees

Fees vary based on permit type, duration, location, and event size. Below is a general fee schedule (subject to annual adjustment):

Nonprofit organizations may qualify for a 50% fee reduction. Submit proof of nonprofit status with your application to receive this discount. Fees are non-refundable unless the city cancels the permit due to unforeseen circumstances.

Step 6: Await Approval and Receive Permit

Processing times vary:

• Picnic and Wedding Permits: 5–10 business days
• Special Events and Sports Permits: 10–20 business days
• Commercial Film Permits: 15–30 business days

You will receive an email notification when your permit is approved. Download and print your official permit document, which includes:

• Permit number
• Authorized date and time
• Approved location and boundaries
• Conditions of use
• Emergency contact information

Keep this document accessible during your event. Park staff or police may request to see it at any time.

Step 7: Prepare for Your Event

Once approved, take these final steps to ensure a smooth experience:

• Confirm Setup and Cleanup Times: You are typically allowed access 2 hours before and 1 hour after your event. Exceeding this window incurs overtime fees.
• Arrange for Trash Removal: All trash and debris must be removed by the end of your event. Failure to do so results in a $200–$500 cleanup fee.
• Coordinate with Vendors: Ensure food trucks, rental companies, and entertainers have their own permits if required. No vendor may operate without city authorization.
• Notify Neighbors: For large events, it’s courteous to notify nearby residents of noise, parking, and traffic changes.
• Review Emergency Protocols: Know the location of first aid stations, fire extinguishers, and emergency exits in the park. Designate at least one staff member as a safety coordinator.

Best Practices

Applying for a park permit is not just about compliance—it’s about responsible stewardship of public resources. Following these best practices ensures your event runs smoothly, minimizes disruption, and enhances community relations.

Plan Early

Popular parks and peak seasons (April–October) fill up quickly. Begin your planning at least 8–12 weeks in advance. For holidays like Memorial Day, Fourth of July, or Labor Day, submit applications 4–6 months ahead.

Be Specific in Your Application

Vague descriptions like “family gathering” or “outdoor event” lead to delays. Instead, specify: “50-person birthday picnic with bounce house, music via Bluetooth speaker, and 3 food vendors.” Clear details help staff assess impact and approve faster.

Understand Noise and Lighting Restrictions

Long Beach enforces strict noise ordinances to protect residential areas. Use directional speakers, avoid peak evening hours, and turn off amplification at the required cutoff time. For evening events, use LED lighting instead of halogen or floodlights to reduce light pollution.

Minimize Environmental Impact

Use reusable or compostable tableware. Avoid attaching decorations to trees or fences. Do not drive vehicles onto grassy areas. Follow Leave No Trace principles—pack out everything you bring in.

Designate a Point of Contact

Assign one person as the official representative for your event. This individual must be present throughout the event and available to speak with park staff or law enforcement if issues arise.

Prepare for Weather Contingencies

Long Beach weather is generally mild, but wind, fog, or rare rainstorms can disrupt events. Have a backup plan: Can tents be added? Is there an indoor alternative? The city does not issue refunds due to weather, so plan accordingly.

Engage the Community

Consider making your event open to the public or including educational components (e.g., nature walks, art displays). Parks are shared spaces, and events that foster community connection are more likely to receive favorable reviews and future approvals.

Follow Up After Your Event

Send a brief thank-you note to the Parks Department after your event. If you received positive feedback from attendees, share it with staff. Building goodwill increases the likelihood of future permit approvals and may qualify you for priority scheduling.

Tools and Resources

Successful permit applications rely on accurate information and efficient tools. Below are the most valuable resources available to applicants in Long Beach.

Official City of Long Beach Parks Website

www.longbeach.gov/parks is the central hub for all permit-related information. It includes:

• Interactive park map with availability
• Downloadable application forms
• Fee schedules and policy handbooks
• FAQs and video tutorials

Park Reservation System (Online Portal)

The online portal allows you to search, reserve, pay, and manage your permit all in one place. Features include:

• Real-time calendar view of booked dates
• Automated reminders for deadlines
• Document upload and status tracking
• Electronic receipt and permit download

Long Beach Parks Permit Office

Located at 301 W. Ocean Blvd, Suite 100, the office offers in-person consultations, document review, and assistance with complex applications. Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. No appointment needed.

City of Long Beach Code of Ordinances

Review Title 10 (Parks and Recreation) and Title 14 (Noise and Public Nuisance) for full legal guidelines. Accessible at municode.com/library/ca/long_beach.

California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC)

If serving alcohol, apply for a temporary permit at abc.ca.gov. Allow 4–6 weeks for processing.

Third-Party Insurance Providers

Recommended providers for event liability insurance in California:

• EventHelper – Specializes in short-term event coverage
• InsureMyEvent – Offers instant quotes and digital certificates
• Chubb – Preferred by many corporate and nonprofit event planners

Mobile Apps

• Long Beach Parks App – Available on iOS and Android. Provides maps, alerts, and permit reminders.
• Google Maps – Use satellite view to scout park layouts and access points before applying.

Community Partnerships

Nonprofits and schools can partner with the Long Beach Parks Foundation for grant funding, volunteer support, or equipment loans. Visit www.longbeachparksfoundation.org for more information.

Real Examples

Real-world examples illustrate how the permit process works in practice. Below are three case studies of successful applications in Long Beach.

Example 1: Family Picnic at El Dorado Park

Applicant: The Ramirez Family
Event: 40-person birthday picnic with cake, games, and no alcohol
Permit Type: Picnic Permit
Timeline: Applied 6 weeks in advance
Process: Applied online, selected El Dorado Park’s Group Picnic Area

7, uploaded ID and payment. Received approval in 7 days. Used provided picnic tables and grills. Cleaned up all trash. No issues.

Outcome: Event completed successfully. Family received a thank-you email from the Parks Department and was invited to participate in a community survey.

Example 2: Community Art Festival at Shoreline Village

Applicant: Long Beach Arts Collective (nonprofit)
Event: 150-person outdoor art fair with 12 vendors, live music, food trucks, and children’s activities
Permit Type: Special Event Permit
Timeline: Applied 5 months in advance
Process: Submitted detailed event plan, layout map, insurance ($1.5M policy), vendor list, and ABC permit for one food truck. Paid $850 base fee + $300 for sanitation + $200 for security. City assigned a liaison to coordinate setup. Used only biodegradable servingware.

Outcome: Festival drew over 500 attendees. No complaints. Received media coverage and was nominated for “Best Community Event” by the Long Beach Chamber of Commerce.

Example 3: Wedding Ceremony at Rancho Los Alamitos

Applicant: Sarah and Michael Chen
Event: 35-person wedding ceremony with floral arch, seating for 30, no reception
Permit Type: Wedding Permit
Timeline: Applied 4 months in advance
Process: Selected the historic garden courtyard. Submitted ID, insurance ($1M), and ceremony schedule. Paid $250. No alcohol or amplified music. Used only natural decorations (flowers, lanterns). Park staff provided a coordinator to oversee setup.

Outcome: Ceremony proceeded without incident. Photos were featured in a local wedding blog. The couple donated 10 potted plants to the park after the event as a gesture of appreciation.

FAQs

Can I apply for a park permit the day before my event?

No. All applications require a minimum processing time of 5 business days. Last-minute requests are not accepted, even for small gatherings.

Do I need a permit if I’m just meeting friends for a walk in the park?

No. Public access to parks for individual or small group recreation (under 25 people) does not require a permit. Permits are only required for organized events or activities that use designated facilities or exceed group size limits.

What happens if I don’t get a permit?

Using a park for an unauthorized event may result in immediate termination of your activity, fines up to $1,000, and potential bans from future park use. The city actively patrols parks and responds to complaints.

Can I bring my dog to a permitted event?

Dogs are allowed in most parks but must be leashed at all times. They are not permitted in designated picnic areas during events unless specified in your permit. Always clean up after your pet.

Are there discounts for seniors, veterans, or students?

Discounts are available only for registered nonprofit organizations with IRS 501(c)(3) status. General public discounts are not offered.

Can I host a fundraiser or sell tickets at a park with a permit?

Yes, but only under a Special Event Permit. You must disclose all commercial activity, including ticket sales, and may be subject to additional fees or reporting requirements.

How do I renew or extend my permit?

Permits are issued for a single date and time. Extensions are not granted. If you need to reschedule, you must submit a new application and pay the full fee again.

What if it rains on my event day?

The city does not provide refunds or rain dates. You may reschedule only if you submit a new application before your original date. Some parks have covered pavilions—check availability when applying.

Can I use a drone at my event?

Drone use is strictly prohibited in all Long Beach parks without a separate permit from the City’s Aviation Division. Contact the Parks Permit Office for guidance on drone regulations.

Is parking provided with my permit?

Park permits do not guarantee parking. Most parks have limited public parking. You are responsible for arranging off-site parking, shuttle services, or encouraging carpooling for large events.

Conclusion

Applying for a park permit in Long Beach is more than a bureaucratic step—it’s an opportunity to responsibly celebrate life’s milestones, foster community, and honor the city’s natural and cultural heritage. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you ensure your event not only meets legal requirements but also contributes positively to the public spaces you’re fortunate enough to use.

Whether you’re organizing a quiet wedding among ancient trees, a vibrant cultural festival under the open sky, or a simple family picnic with laughter echoing through the grass, the process is designed to support your vision while protecting the environment and the rights of all park users. Start early, prepare thoroughly, communicate clearly, and respect the rules—and your event will not only be successful but remembered fondly by attendees and the city alike.

Long Beach’s parks are a gift. With thoughtful planning and civic responsibility, you help preserve that gift for generations to come.