Thank You for Your Interest in Hosting a Special Event with Us!

We’re excited you’re considering the City of Port Aransas Parks and Recreation facilities for your upcoming event. Whether you're planning a community festival, family reunion, or fun run, we're here to help make your event a success!

To get started, please follow the steps below to determine whether a Special Event Permit (SEP) is required and how to complete the application process.

Do You Need a Special Event Permit?

A Special Event Permit is required if the answer is YES to any of the following:

  • Will your event last more than four hours, including set-up and tear-down?
  • Will your event have more than 100 attendees?
  • Are you using multiple areas of the park, beyond a pavilion?
  • Will your event include additional activities like bounce houses, amplified music, vendors, or alcohol?

👉 If you answered YES to any question above, you’ll need to submit a Special Event Permit Application to our Community Programs Coordinator, Kristie Stevens at KStevens@cityofportaransas.org.
👉 If you answered NO to all questions, you may proceed with a standard facility reservation by calling our office at 361-749-4158.

Special Event Permit Process

Step 1: Submit Your Application

Step 2: Check Availability

  • We’ll confirm your requested location is available in RecDesk.
  • If available, a temporary hold will be placed in the system and marked as “PENDING.”

Step 3: Internal Review

Your application will be reviewed by the appropriate staff:

  • Roberts Point Park: Colleen Simpson & Rob Phillips
  • Community Park: Colleen Simpson & Adam Johnson
  • Nature Areas (Preserve, Birding Center, Paradise Pond): Colleen Simpson & Rae Mooney

Step 4: City Manager Approval

  • Your permit will be shared with the City Manager for final feedback and approval.

Step 5: Confirmation & Payment

  • Once approved, we’ll contact you to confirm.
  • Your invoice will be issued, and you can pay through RecDesk.

Fees Include:

  • Non-refundable rental fee (per RecDesk & City Fee Schedule)
  • Refundable cleaning deposit:
    • $25 for small pavilion
    • $200 for all other park facilities

Non-refundable fees are paid online. Refundable deposits must be submitted by check or money order and are held securely at City Hall Finance.

Step 6: Final Event Notification

Once payment is received, we will notify:

  • All impacted departments
  • Grounds Supervisor, David Lown

Step 7: Permit Issued

You’ll receive a Permit Slip to have with you during the event.

Step 8: Citywide Notification

We’ll notify:

  • City Manager
  • Port Aransas EMS
  • Port Aransas Police Department
  • Emergency Management
  • Custodial Services

Step 9–10: Reminders

  • 30 Days Before: We’ll confirm plans with you and impacted agencies.
  • 1 Week Before: A final reminder check-in with all involved.

Step 11: Post-Event Walkthrough

  • A walkthrough will be scheduled to check for any damage.
  • If all is in good shape, we’ll notify you and arrange to return or destroy your cleaning deposit.

Step 12: If Damage Occurs

  • We’ll coordinate with relevant departments to assess and determine next steps.

Step 13: Final Filing

  • Once your event is fully complete and all payments/deposits are processed, all documentation will be filed under Past Special Event Permits.

Questions?

We’re here to help! Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions about the process, timeline, or your event, 361-749-4158.

We look forward to working with you and helping make your event a success in Port Aransas!