Show All Answers

1. How do I reserve a space in a City park?

Reservations are processed on a first come, first served basis and require a completed Park Rental Permit Application (download a PDF version) and payment of the required permit fees. After receipt of the aforementioned items, park staff has two weeks to review, process, and render a decision on your permit application. A copy of the decision form will be mailed regarding the status of your park reservation request.

2. Can I reserve an entire park?

Parks must still remain open to the public during events. Holding a park permit does not grant exclusive use of an entire park. Areas such as playgrounds, gardens, and wading pools are not open for reservation to the public.

3. Are water and electricity available to the public in the parks?

There are only a few locations where utility access is available and these are accessible only to permit holders for the date and time they have successfully reserved. Water and electricity are available at Shelters 1 and 2 in Alton Baker Park, the F.M. Wilkins Shelter in Hendricks Park, and in Washington Jefferson Park. Electricity is also available in the Owen Rose Garden gazebo.

4. What happens once I turn in my park permit application materials?

When the City receives a completed application along with the application fee, staff will put your event on the reservation calendar to hold a place for the event during processing. The City has two weeks to render a decision on your application and you will be notified via mail of the status of your permit application.

5. What if I plan to set up a canopy, tent, stage, or other equipment?

A site plan is required for tent, canopy, stage, portable restroom, booth, and/or other equipment placement. Because of irrigation, utilities, and turf concerns, the Parks and Open Space office must be notified if any stakes, posts, spikes, or other objects will be driven into the ground.

6. If I am planning a potluck, private picnic or barbeque, do I really need to obtain a temporary restaurant license from Lane County Health like the application indicates?

If you are planning a private party in which food is not being sold or distributed for donation and attendees are limited to invitees or members only, then you do not need a temporary restaurant license. However, if food is catered or served, sold, or distributed to the public, you must obtain and provide proof of licensure. Check with Lane County Health (541)682-3731 for more information.

7. What if there will be alcohol served or brought by attendees at my event?

You (or your vendors) will be required to present proof of your “Host Liquor Liability Insurance.” See Park Rule 1.007 for complete details. Check with OLCC for current rules and permit requirements.
No hard liquor or glass beverage containers are allowed within City parks per Park Rule 1.007 (2)(a) and 1.071.

8. Where can I purchase General or Host Liquor Liability Insurance?

Consult with your insurance provider to see about obtaining coverage. (The City of Eugene also has access to special event liability insurance for activities on City premises. Contact Risk Services staff at 541-682-5665 for more details, and check the Recreation Department's Special Event Page.)

9. Which parks have grills?

No City of Eugene park has a barbecue grill available to the public. However, you may bring a briquette or gas barbecue to your event as long as you are in a developed park, the fire is never left unattended, and you carry out all coals and ash. The briquette or gas barbeque may not be located inside a sheltered structure area.

10. Is it OK to empty ice chests in parks?

Please do not empty ice chests in the parks as it kills the grass.

11. What are park hours?

Most City parks are open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. The Hendricks Park Shelter is available only from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

12. How can I participate as a vendor at an event?

Please contact the event organizer directly to participate as a vendor at their event.