How do I get a permit for my park event?
The forms below are applications, not approvals. You must receive approval from the city for the permit to be complete.
2026 Update: One-time reservations for city park shelters and pavilions or outdoor atheltic facilities in city parks are now online!
Permits for city parks are managed by the Division of Special Events, Division of Recreation, or specific recreation center managers. All are within the Parks and Recreation Department.
With each permit below, you will find the address, fax number and email address of the city office responsible for approval and the primary contact for assistance. Permit applications must be submitted in-person, via fax, or emailed to this listed office. All applications must be submitted at least 14 days ahead of the event. The sooner, the better.
Reserving a shelter, pavilion, gazebo, or city park space for a small event: No more paper permits. You can now request reservations online.
Application: Division of Recreation Portal (Click: “Shelter & Park Rentals” at top)
How to submit: Select your park, date and time, then follow the online prompts
Need assistance? Email: parkscoalitioncle@gmail.com
Reserving an outdoor field, baseball diamond, tennis court, or basketball hoop in a city park: No more paper permits for one-time reservations. You can now request reservations online.
Click here to visit our post explaining the new digital reservation system for one-time outdoor reservations.
Need assistance? Email: parkscoalitioncle@gmail.com
Reserving a park for a large community event (farmers market, concert, etc):
Application: Large Special Event Permit Application
How to submit: In-person, fax or email to Division of Special Events
Contact: 216-664-2484
Reserving space or indoor athletic facilities in a Neighborhood Resource and Recreation Center (Rec Center):
Application: Recreation Facility Use Permit
How to submit: In-person, fax, or email to the Manager of the recreation center
Contact: Manager of the recreation center
Reserving Halloran Skating Rink:
Contact the Halloran Park Center Manager to receive a permit application and ask about reservations at Halloran Skating Rink.
Contact: Carrie Serrano, cserrano@clevelandohio.gov
Using a hydrant for water access in a city park:
Application: Temporary/Hydrant Permit (email to request application)
Contact: Cleveland Water: permitsandsales@clevelandwater.com or 216-664-2444
Need help? Let us know: parkscoalitioncle@gmail.com
