The Special Events Committee (SEC) permits special events for the City of Charleston. The permitting process ensures the production of safe, enjoyable, and successful events for participants, spectators, and the community!
The Special Events Manager is here to help guide applicants through the permitting process and regulations to consider when planning a special event. The Special Events Manager is the liaison between you and the Special Events Committee to ensure that all events function safely and responsibly.
Please contact us if you have questions or want to start the Special Event Permit application process! We encourage checking the availability of the location, date, and feasibility of the proposed event before applying.
A Special Event means a pre-planned activity sponsored by an individual, group, organization or entity proposed to be held on public property, including public streets, sidewalks, trails, facilities, parks, or other property owned or managed by the city, which would significantly impact either public property and/or normal vehicular and pedestrian traffic requiring the use of city services.
Examples of Special Events include but are not limited to the following: A parade, festival, foot race, bike or wheeled race, celebration, amusement event, cultural recognition, sporting event, First Amendment demonstration referred by the police department, competition, commercial movie or television production, photography shoot, commercial for-profit event, charitable cause, or other similar activity.
The application process begins when fully executed applications are received and the non-refundable permit fee is paid. Applications are due 60-120 days prior to the date of the special event, depending on the scope and complexity of the proposed event.
At this time, we are not taking applications for new road races on the peninsula. Please reach out to the Special Events Manager for alternative locations and more information.
Before getting started, review the Special Events Permit Application Process.
COMMERCIAL FILM/PHOTOGRAPHY
For requests regarding a commercial film/photography permit, please review and complete the film and photography application. The film permit application shall be submitted a minimum of fifteen (15) business days before the film activity is scheduled to begin for high impact filming. A minimum of ten (10) business days is required for low impact filming. Photography/filming in a City Park also requires a park permit. High impact filming may require a Special Event Permit.
For more information, please reach out to the Film and Photography Manager Alexia Sosa at 843-579-6422.
WEDDING/ELOPEMENT/BIRTHDAY PARTY/RESERVATION OF A RECREATION FACILITY
If you are looking to host a wedding/elopement, birthday party, or reserve a Recreation facility or Park, please go to the City Recreation Department's website to make your permit reservation: charleston-sc.gov/recreation, or call (843)-724-7327 for more information or assistance.