Special Events

Special Event Permit

The Great Basin District provides spectacular locations for special events such as weddings, reunions, memorials, corporate, and athletic events. We provide multiple backdrops for your events including panoramic views of the mountains, deserts, and valleys. The following information is provided to assist you with planning your event.

Special Event Permits are required for any activity that is outside regular park use. Activities that require Special Event Permits include, but are not limited to:

  • Use of amplified music
  • Use of PA systems
  • Bands or Disc Jockeys
  • Use of bounce houses
  • Large tents (20'x20' and larger)
  • Outside catering companies or food trucks
  • Any event involving the sale of food or other items
  • Races, fishing tournaments, sports, or other organized competitions
  • Any event where tickets are sold or fees are charged for participants
  • Weddings


Special Event Permit, Fees, and Process
A completed Special Event Permit, Certificate of General Liability Insurance, and non-refundable $25.00 fee must be received by the park in order for the permit application to be processed. For events that require exclusive use areas, impact normal park use, involve camping, sporting activities, tournaments, or competitions, an activity fee will be assessed. Activity fees vary depending on the event size, number of participants, duration, location, staffing needs, and resource impacts. Photography and film permits are coordinated under a separate process.

Special Event Permit requests may be submitted up to one year in advance of the event date. Special Event Permit applications including any additioanl required documents must be submitted at least 30 days in advance of the event date. Special Event Permits requested less than 30 days in advanced of the event date may not be processed or permitted. Special Event Permits will not be accepted within 14 days of the event. Only one event date is allowed per permit.

Applicant Instructions
1. Contact the Special Event Coordinator via email at GreatBasin.District@parks.ca.gov to provide the following information:

  • Event date
  • Number of attendees
  • Type of event (meeting, wedding, reunion, memorial, festival, etc.)
  • Type of activities (live music, dancing, cross country running/walking, barbecue, etc.)

2. The Special Events Coordinator will contact you to begin the permitting process. The Special Event Coordinator will fill out the Special Event Permit, list any fees and documents required, and send the permit application to you.

3. All permit application documents, the non-refundable permit fee payment, and any additional requirements to be completed by you need to be submitted at least 30 days prior to the event date to ensure the permit application is approved.

4. Special event permits are not approved/confirmed until all documents (including insurance and outside vendor contracts) are submitted and final fees are paid in full.

The applicant agrees to provide a detailed site plan indicating event location and layout no later than 30 days prior to the event. The site plan must include locations of tables, chairs, arches, tents, AV equipment, food/beverage stations, power supply, staging areas, vehicle and pedestrian routes, and a complete delivery schedule. No signs or direction markers are permitted to be placed in the park unless authorized by the permit.

Set-up, décor, and activity plans must be fully disclosed, pre-approved and included in the special event permit. Décor items such as flower petals, balloons, rice, confetti, and sparklers are not permitted. Staking or permanent fasteners (staples, nails, screws, etc.) are strictly prohibited. Fireworks are strictly prohibited.

In general, no vehicles are permitted off-road, on paved walking paths, or in picnic areas except by permit.

Park posted orders, permit requirements and other applicable laws are strictly enforced. Additional permits from other governmental agencies such as City, County, CHP, CalTrans, and Alcoholic Beverage Control may be required for certain events and are the sole responsibility of the applicant.

Reservation, Deposit, and Non-Refundable Fee Information
Special event permits are not approved until the complete permit application and full payment of fees are received. All forms and fees, including insurance, must be turned in at least 30 calendar days prior to the event date. In the event that full payment and the complete permit application are not received in the time frame required by the Great Basin District prior to the event, the reservation will be canceled and the non-refundable permit fee will be forfeited.

Cancelations
Special Event Permit applicants must cancel their event ten business days prior to the scheduled event date. If a cancellation is requested less than ten business days prior to the event, the non-refundable permit fee will be forfeited. Events that have a monitor will forfeit the monitor fees when canceling less than 24 hours in advance. No refunds will be issued due to weather. No refunds will be given to events that are canceled by California State Parks staff for violation of any term or condition of the permit application or posted park order.

For additional information, contact GreatBasin.District@parks.ca.gov or call the District Office at (661) 724-1206.