Beginning in 2012, DDOT started to manage the public space permitting process for neighborhood block parties. Residents seeking to obtain a public space permit for an event on their block need to submit their request to DDOT through the Transportation Online Permit System (TOPS). TOPS allows residents to conveniently apply for a block party permit 15 days prior to the event date. Agency reviews will be completed through TOPS. Applicants can also visit the permit center at 1100 4th Street SW where program support staff will be happy to walk you through the process.
To apply for a Neighborhood Block Party, Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- The applicant must be an adult resident (21 years or older) of the block being closed and submit identification as part of the application
- The area must not exceed two intersecting streets (i.e., must be limited to one block)
- The street must be reopened no later than 10 pm
- The applicant must obtain the consent of 51% of households on the block (see Temporary Street Closing Petition below)
- Vending and food trucks are prohibited. No sales, fees, or donations shall be solicited or accepted at the event
- No sale or consumption of alcohol beverages allowed
- Tickets cannot be sold for entry; the street must remain open to the public
- Accessibility for emergency equipment via an unobstructed 20-foot emergency access fire lane must be maintained at all times
- Posting of Emergency No Parking (ENP) signs must be completed no less than 72 hours prior to the date of the event
- Block parties should never be held directly in front of an alley nor in an alleyway
- Please review the guides and templates below for more information.
