FAQs - Special Events
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit?
A special event permit is required if you have more than 25 people or if your request goes beyond a typical day use activity. Examples of events that need a permit include:
- Set up that is beyond regular day use
- Alcohol
- Catering services
- Outside vendor or businesses
- For-profit and nonprofit organization gatherings
- Anything that interferes with public access
- Sales of items or services
- Trainings, classes, or meetings
- Weddings, reunions, and memorial services
- Athletic events
- Advertising a specific meet-up location
This list is not exhaustive. If you have further questions, please email the Special Event Coordinator at GreatBasin.District@parks.ca.gov or call the District Office at (661) 724-1206.
Do you offer an expedited Special Event Permit for a late request?
No, we do not offer a rush or expedited Special Event Permit.
How much is a Special Event Permit?
Permit fees are determined by the number of attendees and the complexity of the event. To receive a quote, please email the Special Event Coordinator at GreatBasin.District@parks.ca.gov.
What items are required for a Special Event permit?
- Completed application
- Permit fees
- Site map
- Event insurance
Additional permits (Alcoholic Beverage Control permit, health department permit for food, Fire Marshal permit, filming, etc.) and monitoring may be required based on your event details. Events taking place at Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve State Natural Reserve and Tule Elk State Natural Reserve may also require additional permits, forms, or monitoring. State Historic Parks require at least one (1) monitor for all special events. Filming requires at least one (1) monitor for a minimum of 6 hours. The Special Events Coordinator will provide you with those details during the permitting process.
Is insurance required for all events? How do I get it?
Most special events need event insurance. Your insurance should cover general liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 general agregate (higher for complex events) with the State of California listed as an additionally insured. The Special Event Coordinator will provide you with the requirements for your event. Our Special Events Office cannot recommend specific providers - you may search for "one-day special event insurance" or check with your insurer.
Can I have alcohol at my event?
Yes, with the appropriate permit. If your event is public and alcohol is included, meaning being sold or given away, you will need to obtain an Alcoholic Beverage Control permit. All events where alcohol will be provided and/or consumed require at least one (1) State Park Peace Officer (SPPO) Ranger monitor. The permittee will be responsible to pay for at least one (1) SPPO Ranger monitor (8-hour minumum).
- Beer or wine only. Spirits or hard liquor are not permitted.
- Only persons over twenty-one (21) years of age may possess or consume alcohol.
- The permittee is responsible for compliance with California Alcoholic Beverage Control regulations.
- All alcohol service/consumption must end one (1) hour prior to the end of the event.
- Alcohol may only be consumed for a four (4) hour period during the event.
- An Alcoholic Beverage Control permit is required for all events where alcohol is served by an outside vendor, caterer, or bartender.
- Permittees may be required to submit a written proposal of the exact quantity of alcoholic beverages that will be at the event with a plan to limit overconsumption.
- All permits where alcohol is to be served will require District Superintendent and Division Chief approvals.
What is Peak Season
Peak season runs from March 1 through Mother's Day at the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve SNR because of increased public visitation
This location is unavailable for special events during peak season:
Is Parking Free if I have a Special Event permit?
Special Event permits do not include parking. Parking is first come, first serve and all day use parking fees apply.