Special Events Application Process

What Is a Special Event?

A “Special Event” means any temporary activity, lasting no more than thirty days, held either indoors or outdoors, on both developed or undeveloped public or private property. If the activity is not consistent with the property's usual intended use or its allowed occupancy levels. It also includes any event that may require the closure of public streets or the temporary installation of materials or devices involving building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, flammable, or similar materials.  A “Special Event” may include, but are not limited to, short-term activities such as shows, circuses, concerts, festivals, carnivals, public dances, business grand openings, car shows, exhibitions, lectures, auctions, raves, boxing or wrestling matches, walk-a-thons, marathons, cycling events, sporting events, film productions, farmers' markets, pumpkin patches, outdoor sales (including vehicle sales), or any combination of such events that the public can attend either for free or for a fee.

  • Special events are any temporary event, which is inconsistent with the permanent use of the property, not exceeding 30 days whether indoors or outdoors, on public or private property.
  • Note: Only one special event permit may be obtained every three months for any particular event site.

What Is the Application Process?

The process starts with the Community Services Department or Recreation Division. Recreation Division staff will act as your liaison to the Special Events Committee, assist you in obtaining the permits needed, and provide you with guidance and direction regarding the special event permit process.

  • All applications (PDF) should be submitted (with all supporting documentation) no less than 30 working days prior to the opening date of the event, in order to give ample time for review and recommendation.
  • Detailed Site Map - Map should include placement of any temporary materials such as canopies, rented restrooms, check-in booth location, food vendors, road closures, etc.
  • Complete Vendor List - This list must include food vendors and non-food vendors such as general merchandise sellers.
  • Copy of Commercial General Liability Insurance (COI) form with the City of Colton, 650 N La Cadena Drive, Colton, CA 92324 listed as additionally insured for $1,000,000
  • Food Vendors (including pre-packaged items) are required to hold a County of San Bernardino Health Permit. Copies of valid County of San Bernardino Health Permit are required.   
  • All Vendors (food or non-food/general merchandise) must obtain a One-Day Business License or poses an Annual Business License with the City of Colton.
  • All Vendors (food or general merchandise) must poses a Temporary Sellers Permit listing the address of the event.
  • Event Organizer County Permit – If the Special Event will have food (free or food vendors), the event organizer will need to obtain a Temporary Food Facility Event Organizer Permit with the County of San Bernardino, Department of Public Health

Applications can be obtained and submitted Monday to Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at:
Gonzales Community Center
670 Colton Avenue
Colton, CA 92324

  • Once received, applicants will receive a phone call confirming receipt of the application. Applications are then forwarded to the Special Event Committee for review and recommendations. The committee includes representatives from Community Services, Police, Fire, Electric, Public Works, and Development Services.
  • Depending on the scale of the proposed event, applicants may be scheduled to meet with the Special Event Committee in person. 
  • Applicants should not assume all aspects of the event will be approved, as they may be asked to make some changes based on the availability of services and the scheduling of other events. Therefore, applicants are encouraged not to make any arrangements or publicize until approval has been given by the city.


For more information, contact raziliramirez@coltonca.gov or the Colton Community Services Department at (909) 370-6153. Follow us on social media @ColtonCSD.