Block Party Permits
Berkeley residents, property owners, and building tenants can apply for a block party permit to host a public gathering in the street in front of their building.
You can request to close the street in front of your house to car traffic so that you can host a block party. Block parties must be hosted solely by the owners, residents, or tenants of properties fronting the street.
Block parties can take place on weekends between the hours of 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.
Fill out a block party permit form to apply
Complete a Block Party Activity Permit form and send it to the Transportation Division. You can submit your form by email or mail:
- Email the application to transportation@berkeleyca.gov
- Mail the application to Public Works / Transportation Division, 1947 Center Street, Berkeley 94704
Apply by the Tuesday prior to the weekend when you wish to host the event.
The non-refundable fee for a block party permit is $15, payable by check, money order, or credit card.
You may want to research additional permit requirements for your event. The block party permit covers the temporary closure of your street, but you need an additional amplified sound permit to use a speaker system to play music or make announcements.
If you are placing an inflatable bounce house in the street, you must choose a company with a current business license from the City of Berkeley and who can provide a certificate of insurance.
Responsibilities for block party organizers
Block party organizers are responsible for preparing for, monitoring, and cleaning up after the event.
Before the event
At least 72 hours before the event, invite each resident on the street where the block party will take place. On the Friday before your event, pick up barricades and road closed signs from the Corporation Yard (1326 Allston Way).
During the event
During the event, ensure that residents on the block can walk or drive up to their property. Keep a clear path on the sidewalk or in the street for pedestrians to pass through. The Americans with Disabilities Act requires a path at least three feet wide. You should also maintain a 20-foot wide path for access in case of emergency.
If your event goes past sunset, add flashing lights to the barricades for safety. Note that events may not extend past 8:00 pm.
After the event
Within four hours after the event, clean up all litter from the street and sidewalk. Return barricades and signs on Monday after your event.