DC event permit finder

By Stan MurzynUpdated November 9, 2026

Pick the location, size and program. You get the permits to check and who issues each. Covers DC and the Virginia and Maryland places listed. Anywhere else, ask your city or county special events office.

Your event

Answer what you can. Blank counts as No.

Where is the event?

How many people?

What's involved?

Outdoors or on public space (park, plaza, street, sidewalk)

On federal land, like the National Mall

Street or sidewalk closure

Alcohol served or sold

Amplified sound (band, DJ, speakers)

Food prepared or served

Tent or temporary structure, like a stage

Drone or fireworks

Your permit list

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Do I need a permit for an event in Washington, DC?

Depends on the site. For an event inside a venue, DC's planning guide says to contact the venue owner. An event that uses a DC street goes to the Mayor's Special Events Task Group. The National Mall needs a National Park Service permit instead.

Who issues the permit for the National Mall?

The National Park Service, not DC. NPS takes applications up to a year ahead and charges a $120 processing cost that isn't refunded. Events on U.S. Capitol grounds need a U.S. Capitol Police permit.

Does the finder cover Maryland?

It covers Montgomery County, Prince George's County, Baltimore City, Anne Arundel County and Annapolis, plus Baltimore County liquor licenses and State Fire Marshal rules. For the rest of Maryland, ask your county or city special events office.