Special Event Permits

Planning an event in the Town of Vienna? Whether you’re organizing a community festival, block party, business celebration, road race, or private gathering, the requirements may vary depending on the type, location, and size of your event. Please use the information below to determine which application or permit you may need.

Permitting Process

A Special Event Permit may be required for events that take place on public property or have an impact on Town facilities, streets, parks, traffic, or other public services.

Examples may include:

  • Community festivals and celebrations
  • Events held on public property
  • Events that require street or parking lot closures
  • Events involving amplified sound, tents, vendors, food trucks, or other temporary facilities
  • Other organized activities that may affect public access or Town operations

How to Apply

Special Event Permit applications are submitted through the Town's online permitting system. Please submit your application 75 days before the event date. Some events may require additional review, coordination, or approvals depending on their size, location, and activities.

To submit an application:

  1. Visit the Town's online permitting system.
  2. Select “Submit a Project for Review.”
  3. Create an account or sign in to your existing account.
  4. Complete and submit the application.

The application is designed to accommodate many different types of events. As a result, you may encounter questions that do not apply to your event. Please complete all applicable sections and provide as much information as possible to help Town staff review your request.

For assistance, please refer to the How to Guide(PDF, 740KB).

Other Events and Activities

Not every event requires a Special Event Permit. The following activities have separate application or rental processes.

Block Parties

Block parties allow neighbors to temporarily close a portion of their street so residents can gather and socialize.

A Block Party Permit is required to close a Town street for a block party. To obtain a permit, please complete and submit a Block Party Application Form(PDF, 172KB) . 

Requirements

  • Applications must be submitted at least two weeks before the event. Three weeks' notice is recommended.
  • The applicant must reside on the block being closed.
  • The application must include a petition signed by all residents on the block. No exceptions are permitted.

For more information about hosting a block party, contact the Town by email or 703-255-6370.

 

Business Ribbon Cuttings

Are you a Vienna business celebrating a grand opening, anniversary, renovation, expansion, or other milestone?

The Town's Economic Development team can help coordinate a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Request a Ribbon Cutting

Submitting a request does not finalize or schedule your event. After your request is received, the Economic Development team will contact you to discuss the event and complete the scheduling process.

For more information about business ribbon cuttings please contact the Economic Development by email or call 703-255-6300.

 

Charity Walk/Run, Fundraising Run, 5K Runs/Race

Road races and similar activities may require special coordination with the Town, including traffic and public safety considerations.

If you are interested in organizing a road race, please email the Vienna Police Department or call 703-255-6366 for requirements.

Picnic Shelter Rentals

Picnic shelters at several Town parks are available for rental for private gatherings and other approved activities. Learn more about Picnic Shelter Rentals.

 

Town Green Events

The Town Green is available for rental to nonprofit organizations wishing to host a community event on a limited basis.

Nonprofit organizations interested in renting the Town Green must submit:

Before applying, please review the:

Applications must be received at least 75 days before the requested event date. Town-sponsored events are prioritized over rental requests.

A $25.00 non-refundable application fee applies.

Please note that the Town Green is a public park. Public access to the area remains available even when a privately organized event is taking place.

Learn more about the Town Green.

Vienna Community Center Rentals

Vienna Community Center rooms and spaces are available for rent when they are not being used for recreation programs, classes, activities, or community events.

Rented spaces may be used for birthday celebrations, reunions, meetings, and other approved activities.

Learn more about Community Center Room Rentals

 

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