Click the following questions to expand/contract answers provided by staff. If you require additional information, please dial (239) 444-6150 and our receptionist will route your call to staff who will assist you.
An event providing a community-wide activity which is temporary in nature and would not typically be permitted on a permanent basis and which requires a Special Event Permit.
Special Event activities are defined as, but not limited to, any organized public or private activity held or conducted on a temporary basis which is apart from, or in addition to, activities and uses normally associated with and permitted at a specific location. This definition does not include functions put on by the City of Bonita Springs on its own property, or functions in structures that have been issued a Certificate of Occupancy and are used as an exhibition building.
The application fee is non-refundable. Nevertheless, in case of inclement weather, you may be able to reschedule your event within 30 days subject to approval by the City Manager and/or City Council.
Public restrooms in the parks are open during the day. Arrangement may be made in advance to have the restrooms available. If restrooms are specifically opened for your event, you will be responsible for cleanup and trash removal. Portable toilets will be required for larger events if you are anticipating 200 or more participants. Location of portable toilets is subject to City of Bonita Springs approval.
Yes. Events erecting tents larger than 10 x 10 square feet, erecting a stage, or utilizing portable toilets (unless being used for construction purposes) or any of the items listed above will require a special event permit even if the attendance is below 200 people.
The Lee County Sheriff’s Office sign-off sheet must be completed before you hand in the application to us. They will require the completed special event application and all attachments (as we do).
For questions about the LCSO sign-off sheet: Details Unit 14750 Six Mile Cypress Parkway Fort Myers, FL 33912 (239) 477-1199.
Protests, demonstrations, and rallies are considered a First Amendment right; therefore, a Special Event Permit is not required for these types of events. Organizers are asked to contact the Office of Special Events to verify that no events are scheduled in the areas where protests are being planned and to ensure public safety precautions are in place.
The City of Bonita Springs does not supply such equipment. Applicants are responsible for securing any and all event-related supplies or equipment.
The City of Bonita Springs reserves the right to cancel events due to poor weather and/or turf conditions prior to or on the day of the event that may cause excessive damage to City of Bonita Springs property. Special Event Permits are non-transferable. No rain dates will be issued. Refunds will not be granted for inclement weather.
Parades, runs, walks, carnivals, festivals or any events that include the criteria listed above will require a special event permit.
You must contact the Lee County Sheriff’s Department to discuss road closures prior to submitting your special events application. There may be additional charges for deputies to be on-site. You are responsible for all barricades for any and all road closures. You will then need to supply the Sheriff’s Department with the approved special event permit and an additional fee may be required at that time.
You must apply for a short term vendor permit. A non-refundable fee of $25 is required for each vendor.
You will be contacted 5 business days after the City Council meeting letting you know if you have been approved or denied. If approved, you will be told when you may pick up your approved Special Events Permit at the reception desk in Bonita Springs City Hall. If you need further assistance after the meeting, please contact JoAnn Lawrence at (239) 949-6239.
You may visit Bonita Springs City Hall Special Events Division at 9101 Bonita Beach Road Bonita Springs, FL 34135.
