Overview

We hope this website will be informative and useful as you begin planning your special event, filming, or photo shoot. The Special Events Office is a section of Parks and Recreation. The Special Events Office assists the public by coordinating city services related to various events held at City facilities and public properties. The Special Events Office processes special event and film permits for approximately 200 events every year. The events, which range in size from a birthday party to national sporting events, connect our neighborhoods and showcase the best our citizens and city have to offer. We look forward to assisting you with your special event or filming needs.

For more information please contact the Special Events mainline (760) 435-5540 or email us at specialevents@oceansideca.org.

Frequently Asked Questions

• When do I need a Special Event permit?
  • Special Event permits are required for any event held on public property with an organized group of 50 or more. Please see our permit application page for more details on applying for a permit.  

• Can I reserve a park/pavilion/gazebo for a party?
  • At this time the city does not reserve any parks, beaches, or gazebos for private parties, they are all on a first-come first-served basis. A special event permit is still required for groups of more than 50, but the permit is not considered a space reservation. It is the responsibility of the permit holder to arrive at the space early and secure the venue for themselves. 

• Is a permit required for a bounce house?
  • The city does not have any current special requirements for bounce houses. Bounce houses are allowed at our parks without a permit. The city recommends that anyone obtaining a bounce house also purchase liability insurance and add the City of Oceanside as the additionally insured party.

• What is required to receive an approved special event permit?
  • Special event permits have a $150 permit fee and all permits require liability insurance. If the applicant does not have access to insurance the city may be able to provide them insurance for an additional fee. Larger events may have more fees and requirements if additional city services are required to support the event.