Scottsdale is an ideal environment to hold a special event due to its inviting weather, abundance of shops and activities, and year-round attractiveness to our many visitors and residents. The city recognizes special events as an important part of Scottsdale's quality of life and the contribution they make to a sustainable tourism industry.
New Special Event Planning and Permitting Portal is Coming Soon
Starting in January 2026, Scottsdale’s Tourism and Event customers will begin using a new online portal for special event permit applications and administrative approvals for sidewalk, seasonal, special vehicle sales and grand openings.
Scottsdale SPUR (Smart Planning, Use and Regulations) will provide customers with a user-friendly interface in which to submit application requests and payments for city processing.
Check back soon for more details about our new system.
Special Event Permit Application
A special event permit application is required for any temporary activity or series of temporary activities held outdoors on public or private property that is inconsistent with the legal use of the property, and open to the public by advertisement or invitation, with or without charge.
Special Event Guidebook
Most special events represent a major investment of time and money. When well planned and executed, they can bring rewarding dividends to the organizers as well as the City of Scottsdale. Successful events require responsible leadership, careful planning, sensitivity to potential impacts, good organization and follow through, plus the ability to anticipate the unexpected. City staff is available from multiple departments to assist with questions and potential solutions to your specific event planning needs. We encourage you to use the Special Event Guidebook as a resource for planning a safe, successful event, along with important procedural items, policies, and contact information. The guide will aid event producers in planning a special event within the city and includes user friendly visual aids and city requirements.
Special Event Fees
There is an application review fee and permit fee to hold a special event. The application review fee is due upon receipt of the completed application in order to begin review. Events that propose to use public property as part of the event footprint are required to pay use fees. Permit and use fees will be collected prior to the event at time of permit issuance (once event has been approved).
Special Event Planning Resources
Application Resources
City Venues & Spaces
There are city event venues and Old Town spaces that may be a perfect fit for your event. Venues include the Scottsdale Civic Center, Scottsdale Stadium, WestWorld and Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West. Spaces include the Marshall Way Bridge, Stetson Plaza, Canal Banks area, Soleri Plaza, and West Paseo. For more information and to inquire about availability, please contact:
City Venues
Scottsdale Civic Center
Facilities Rental Information: 480-874-4604
Scottsdale Stadium
Event Rental Information: 480-312-2586
WestWorld
Sales & Event Information: 480-312-6815
Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West
Event Venue Information: 480-530-3478
City Spaces
Marshall Way Bridge, Stetson Plaza, Canal Banks, Soleri Plaza, and West Paseo
Cheryl Sumners, Events Manager: 480-312-7834
Any Old Town events proposed along the canal banks within 65' on either side of the canal require SRP review, approval, and licensing.
SRP permit information
Email SRP
602-236-8739
Event Funding Programs
To learn more about event funding or the event directional banner program, visit Tourism & Events.