Welcome to the City of Wilmington's Event Permitting Center.

Review the frequently asked questions to help you with the application processes.

All permits must be submitted 45 days before your scheduled event date. Please follow the payment instructions carefully.

By visiting this page and filling out the permit application, you agree to pay all fees and City services costs associated with your event at least 2 weeks before the scheduled event date.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my event takes place within Wilmington's city limits?

To determine if your event will take place within city limits, take a look at the City of Wilmington map.

Does my event require a permit from the City of Wilmington?

Most events taking place in the city require some type of permit. If you need help getting started, read through our FAQ section. If questions remain, feel free to contact Tiffany Christopher, Events Permitting and Special Projects Assistant, by phone at (302) 576-2138 or by email at specialevents@wilmingtonde.gov.

Will there be costs associated with having an event?

Depending on the event, there may be permit fees and City services costs.

When do permit fees and City services costs need to be paid?

All fees and City services costs must be paid at least 2 weeks before the scheduled event date.

Which application must I submit to close one or more city streets for my event?

If the event is to take place in a residential or business district and is being applied for by an individual/organization, the applicant must complete and submit a Block Party Permit Application. The application must be submitted at least 45 days in advance of the event date. No exceptions! Please note that applications received less than 45 days in advance of the event date are not guaranteed approval for the street closure.

How do I reserve a neighborhood park or recreational area for my event?

For events taking place in a neighborhood park and recreation areas (playgrounds and picnic areas), the completion of a Park Permit Application is required. The application must be submitted at least 45 days in advance of the event date. No exceptions! Please note that applications not received 45 days in advance of the event date are not guaranteed approval.

How do I obtain a permit to conduct a parade in the city?

Applicants are to submit the Special Event Permit Application for (parades and/or processions) on city streets.

For athletic events (walk/run/marathons), the applicant is to complete the Walk/Run Permit Application.

Both applications must be submitted at least 45 days in advance of the event date. No exceptions! Please note that applications not received 45 days in advance of the event date are not guaranteed approval.

Are there any special event services that the City of Wilmington would be unable to provide?

The City of Wilmington is unable to provide portable restroom facilities, tents, tables, chairs, trailers, and catering services. It is the responsibility of the event organizer to secure these services for their special event. To assist with this process, the Office of Cultural Affairs has compiled a list of vendors in the area who provide these types of services. Please contact Tiffany Christopher, Events Permitting and Special Projects Assistant, by phone at (302) 576-2138 or by email at specialevents@wilmingtonde.gov for the list.

Am I required to have EMS coverage for my event?

Events with an expected attendance of 500 people or more are required to have EMS coverage.

Am I required to have Police coverage for my event?

In some cases, a Wilmington Police Department presence is deemed necessary to ensure the safety of event participants and attendees. Upon submission and review of the appropriate applications, a determination will be made as to whether a Police presence is required, and the applicant will be notified as such.

How do I reserve a ball field for my sporting event?

Ball field reservations are handled by the Department of Parks and Recreation. Go to the Ball Field Reservations page for more information and to apply online. 

Apply Online

Apply online using the form that describes your event:

NOTE: Permit applications must be submitted 45 days or more prior to your event. Applications submitted less than 45 days prior will not be accepted.

Apply by Mail or Fax

If you prefer to submit the Wilmington Special Events Permit Application by mail or fax, contact Tiffany Christopher, Events Permitting and Special Projects Assistant, at (302) 576-2138 or specialevents@wilmingtonde.gov.

Application Review 

The Cultural Affairs Events Permitting and Special Projects Assistant will review your application and determine what City services are required and what fees are owed.