New Special Events Ordinance in Frisco

At an otherwise quiet Frisco City Council meeting on July 2, 2019, the Council adopted a new Special Events Ordinance for the city. Here's what you need to know if you are going to have an event in Frisco:

• Special Event is defined as having an expected attendance of 100+ people, require more than 1 city service
• There is a $150 application fee, $150 late fee
• The process is overseen by the Special Event Review Committee (SERC)
• The SREC must grant/deny an application no later than 30 days prior the event
• Permits granted come with conditions - all payments due to city 7 days prior to event, a final site plan is due 30 days prior to the event
• Additionally the SERC can deny, cancel or revoke a permit if the event conflicts with previously planned programs, has been previously denied in last 12 months, outstanding costs, unauthorized use of city logo and/or organizer promotion of event prior to approval
• Appeals process is established
• Penalties are established for failure to comply (misdemeanor, fines not to exceed $2000 for violations related to zoning, health, refuse – otherwise fines not to exceed $500)

City staff estimates that currently 130-150 events a year in the city will need to go through this process. You can read the full ordinance that was approved by a Council vote of 6-0 by clicking here.  Questions? Contact Cara Harting at charting@friscotexas.gov