Special Events

Hosting Special Events in our community helps create a sense of belonging and community pride.  City staff is available to help guide individuals and organizations through the Special Event Process.  All reservations for Special Events, such as festivals, runs/walks, parades, block parties, etc. that occur on public property, including, but not limited to parks, streets and/or sidewalks, are initiated within the City.  For inquiries at one of the City Parks, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department directly at (315) 363-3590.

A Special Event Permit is the official document authorizing an event within the City.  To obtain a Special Event Permit, applicants must submit a completed Special Event Permit Application to the City Clerk at least 30 days prior to the event.  Submission of a Special Event Permit Application does not guarantee the date, location, or automatic approval of an event.

Please note:  Events held on private property (not owned by the City), such as private parties or weddings, fundraisers, garage sales, or other events normally do not require permits. Exceptions would include the sale of food and alcohol, (see Madison County Health Department and New York State Liquor Authority for more information). Also a Right of Way Permit may be required for a temporary street closure, and a Peddler/Solicitor/Vendor Permit may apply to you or other vendors attending your event.

• City of Oneida sponsored events will take priority over other events
• Applicants must be at least 21 years of age
• Unless stated in the application form, it will be understood that the event is not a benefit function, no admission will be charged, and no tickets will be sold
• A full insurance policy in the amount of $1,000,000.00 naming the City of Oneida as an additional insured is required for each event
• The applicant is responsible for cleaning the event area, disposing of waste/trash, and returning the area to a condition similar to that of prior use