Planning a Special Event

The Recreation and Events Manager guides the event organizers through the City's special event permitting process. All reservations for special events that desire to take place on public property (streets, parks, etc.) are initiated with the events manager. The Special Events Handbook is designed to provide event organizers with the necessary information about permitting, planning and producing your event. 

When is a Special Event Permit Required?

A Special Events Permit is required for any outdoor activity taking place on city property (streets, right-of-way, or city parks) that is open to the general public, involves a temporary and exclusive use of public space involving a substantial deviation from current legal land use, and/or any outdoor activity requesting amplification of sound (i.e., band, DJ, sound system with speakers, etc.)

Such events may include but are not limited to:

• Amusements or carnivals
• Entertainment
• Music by way of amplification
• Dancing
• Dramatic or theatrical productions
• Festivals
• Parades
• Runs, walks, triathlons, bicycle races or rides that do not conform with normal traffic flow or may impede or interfere with normal traffic flow
  • Routes for walks, runs, or marathons must be approved by the City of Yankton.
• Any activity erecting structures not present on public space
• Any activity taking place on public spaces that requires city services for successful execution

How do I apply for a Special Event Permit?

Step 1.  Review the Special Events Handbook to familiarize yourself with the permitting process.

Step 2.  Call our office at (605) 668-5232 to check the date and venue availability. A tentative hold will be placed on the calendar.  We prefer the special events permit application be filled out online.

Step 3.  Apply Online   or   Print PDF

• Applications must be submitted 90 days prior to event date to have your application considered. A fee may be associated with your application if received less than 90 days before the event date.

Step 4. Print and complete additional forms/requirements and submit them with your application

• Proof of Event Insurance
• Emergency Response Plan form
• Detailed Map including street closures, requested open container areas, routes, start/finish lines, set-up plans for stage, portable toilets, tables, tents, vendors, activities, emergency access points, parking and any other relevant information. 
• Road Closure Request form (if applicable)
  
  

Other Events 

• Permit to Assemble form - Assembly events may include, but are not limited to gatherings, assemblies, demonstration rallies and other expressive events. The Permit to Assemble Form should be completed for any gathering consisting of twenty-five (25) or more participants that may disrupt the normal and ordinary use of right-of-way, public property, or public facilities.
  
  
• Block Party Request form - Residential block parties are a great way for residents to come together and build strong neighborhoods through an entertaining atmosphere. The City of Yankton allows block parties as a way to foster neighborhood cohesion and strengthen our community. All City ordinances related to sound and entertainment do pertain to Block Parties. Block Party hours may NOT extend past 11:00 p.m. Requests submitted less than 30 days prior to the event are subject to an additional administrative fee and may not be approved.

Online Application Process

• Complete online application in its entirety and submit the application 90 days or more before the event date.
• A letter will be sent to the applicant outlining the requirements for the event.
• Upon receipt of the applicant's acceptance of the requirements, costs and deposit, an event coordination meeting with the applicable city departments will be scheduled, if needed.
• Depending on the type of event, the applicant may be required to obtain additional permits. 
• Upon final approval and review by the Recreation and Events Manager, a permit is issued that will include certain conditions and/or restrictions for which the applicant will be responsible to meet. 

Luke Youmans, Events Coordinator 
Department of Parks and Recreation
1801 Summit Street
PO Box 176 
Yankton, SD 57078-0176 
(605) 668-5232