Event Planning Tools

The following Information and resources assist organizers with event logistics including date and location selection.

If you're applying for a permit, we're happy to offer guidance on date selection, location, routes, and other event details. Contact the Special Events Office to set up an appointment 6 months or more before your proposed event date.

Before selecting an event date and time, consider what other events will occur on the same day. This will help you decide: 

  • If there may be competition for event audience or participants

  • If there will be adequate City resources (such as Police staffing) for your event, and

  • What coordination or partnership opportunities exist between you and other similar or same-day event organizers.

Use the current or previous year's online Special Events Calendar to identify events on the dates you're looking at. 

Date and Time Restrictions

The City of Seattle has identified some dates that will be challenging for City services to support additional events. You may still propose one of these dates, but approval may be difficult, depending on event needs.  

  • May 1 - Annual May Day rallies and marches 

  • Last weekend of June - Seattle Pride 

  • July 4 - Independence Day 

  • Last weekend of July - Seafair Torchlight Parade 

  • First weekend of August - Seafair Weekend

Additionally, there are permit moratoriums for construction and special events during certain holiday seasons for Downtown, Pioneer Square, and Chinatown-International District. See CAM 2107 for dates and maps. 
 
Stadium Events

Athletic events and other types of large event held in stadiums require substantial Police services. This could impact the City services available for your event. Check the team and/or venue calendars to assist with choosing a date:

Rush Hour Drive Time

Use of arterial streets in Seattle, including all public streets in the downtown core, are restricted during weekday peak traffic hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM.  

It is rare that an event can gain approval to close a street or cause any type of traffic control during these hours. 

In addition to many private event spaces for rent throughout Seattle, the following public and City-owned locations may be available. 

Community Spaces for Rent or Reservation

City/State/Federal Locations and Facilities for Rent or Reservation

  • Seattle Center

  • Seattle City Hall

    • Use of Seattle City Hall and City Hall Plaza for special events (including protests and demonstrations) is coordinated through Meredith Stone. Phone (206) 684-7955; email meredith.stone@seattle.gov.

  • University of Washington Facilities

  • Port of Seattle Property

    • Includes Centennial Park (adjacent to Myrtle Edwards Park on downtown waterfront)  

  • US District Courthouse

    • Many free speech events include a rally at the Seattle Courthouse of the US District Court (700 Stewart St). Call (206) 553-1404 for permission to host any activity on this or any other federal property.

  • Jackson Federal Building

    • Many free speech events include a rally at the Henry M. Jackson Federal Building (915 2nd Ave). Call (206) 220-5055 for permission to host any activity on this or any other federal property. 

Make sure your event plan complies with City, County, and State requirements for safety, sanitation, and accessibility. Use the informational resources below to learn about best practices. 

Accessibility

Food Service

Restrooms

Waste Disposal

Food Service

Large/Live Event Crowd Management

Trained crowd managers must be provided for facilities or events where more than 1,000 persons congregate. Learn more about requirements here.

Marches and Demonstrations 

Medical Staffing

If you are planning an event in the City of Seattle and expect more than 5,000 in attendance, contact the Medic One office to discuss requirements.   

Special Events

Address: 700 5th Avenue, Suite 5752, Seattle, WA, 98104
Mailing Address: PO Box 94708, Seattle, WA, 98124-4708
Phone: (206) 684-8017
Fax: (206) 684-7025

The City of Seattle plays a strong role in helping event planners bring people together safely and successfully in both city-wide and neighborhood events.