Private Event Permits

Permit Overview

There are three types of event permits available through the City of South San Francisco. Please click on the tabs below to see descriptions of the permits and application processes. 

Private Events

Permit Overview

Private events are defined by the South San Francisco Municipal Code as any one-time activity, function or event that occurs in rented or leased halls or other venues that are contained within a facility or private property and do not impact City departments beyond day-to-day operations (birthday parties, weddings, baptisms, etc.). Applications must be submitted at least 30 days in advance.

Eligibility

  • Minimum attendance: Events with 75+ attendees are required to apply for a private event permit. Events with fewer guests should not apply for a permit. 

Application Timeline

  • Mandatory deadline: Submit your application no later than 30 days before the event date (SSFMC 6.48.050(a)) Recommended early submission: Applications may be submitted as early as 1 year before the event to allow for review, staffing, or cancellation if denied.

    Late applications: If submitted within 30 days of the event, an additional late fee applies (fee varies by year, refer to master fee schedule).

     

Application Requirements

  • Complete application: All fields must be filled in; mark “not applicable” if not relevant. False statements can lead to denial or revocation (SSFMC 6.48.160)

Fees

  • Current processing fee payable to the Police Department through the online permit portal or in person at 1 Chestnut Avenue, South San Francisco, CA 94080

Security Requirements

  • Minimum attendance: Events with 75+ attendees must hire a South San Francisco Police Officer(s) or a private security officer(s) approved by the Police Chief per MC 6.48.090.
  • Waiver: The Police Chief may waive this requirement if they determine it is not necessary to protect safety, welfare, and morals, considering the licensee’s ability to control behavior.
  • Higher-risk events: Certain events (e.g., celebrations of minors 16 or younger with alcohol served, or events ending after 12:00 a.m. where minors are in attendance and alcohol is served and/or live entertainment is being provided) require Police Officers at rate determined by the City of SSF in the Master Fee Schedule Section 4.34.

Consequences of Non-compliance

  • Holding an event without the proper permit can result in immediate closure of the event (SSFMC 6.48.070)

How to Apply

Contact Information

Special Events

Permit Overview

Special Event Permits are required for organized activities of 75+ people that involve street closures or need coordination among City departments/agencies (e.g., alcohol, on-site cooking, food sales, large temporary structures). These are reviewed by the City’s Special Event Team (representatives from Police, Fire, Planning, Building, Public Works, etc.). Examples include festivals, parades, runs/walks, block parties, and farmer’s markets. The final permit is valid only for the approved venues, activities, set-up, and dismantle described in the application.  

Eligibility

Any organizer of a qualifying special event (as defined above) must apply. Applicants and representatives must accept responsibility for guest/citizen/environmental safety and compliance with all local, state, and federal laws. Application Process

  • Obtain the application (electronic by clicking here and scrolling down to Event Permit Forms, Guidelines, and Information Packet or print from the Police Department at 1 Chestnut Ave).
  • Submit a complete application with all supporting documents to the South San Francisco Police Department Planning and Crime Prevention Division.
  • The Special Event Team reviews, may request additional information or amendments, and coordinates inter-departmental input.
  • Final permits are typically issued only a few days before the event.
  • To cancel or reschedule, notify the Planning and Crime Prevention Division in writing at least 48 hours before set-up (host may still be charged for any dispatched resources).

Application Process

Required Documents

A complete application must include:

  • Host Organization Section
  • Event Summary Section
  • Site Plan (if applicable)
  • Security Plan (if applicable)
  • Marketing Plan (if applicable)
  • Medical Plan (if applicable)
  • Insurance Section (with all required certificates)
  • Signature Section

Fees

  • $250 processing fee (payable to South San Francisco Police Department).
  • Additional $45 late fee if received 30 days or fewer before the event.
  • Other possible costs: additional permit fees, department rates, and charges for personnel/resources provided by the City.
    Payment does not guarantee approval.

Processing Time

Applications must be submitted no later than 60 days before the event (may be submitted up to 1 year in advance). Incomplete applications or delayed responses to requests for information can prevent timely review.

Related Permits

  • Additional City department permits, fees, or conditions may be required depending on event elements (street closures, alcohol, temporary structures, etc.). The Special Event Team coordinates these. Failure to comply with all conditions can result in event cancellation, denial of future permits, or a required cash deposit/surety bond

Contact Information

  • Planning and Crime Prevention Sergeant – 650-877-8927

     

 

Bingo Events

Permit Overview

Bingo games are regulated under the City of South San Francisco Municipal Code and the permits are approved by the Police Department. Certain events may fall under the Special Event Permit process and are subject to review by multiple departments (Police, Fire, Code Enforcement, Planning, Building, etc.)

All Bingo games are subject to a permit from the South San Francico Police Department.    

Requirements

An application for a bingo permit must include:

  • Applicant organization details – Name and address of the applicant organization.
  • Officer information – Names, signatures of at least TWO officers, including the presiding officer of the organization.
  • Event location(s) – Addresses where bingo games will be conducted.
  • Schedule – Days of the week and times when games will occur.
  • Supervision – Names of active members who will supervise games.
  • Criminal history – Whether supervising members have ever been convicted of any crime except misdemeanor traffic violations.
  • Nonprofit status – Sufficient facts to show the organization is a nonprofit charitable organization as defined in the code.
  • Notice and service of process – Address for notices and a person authorized to accept legal service.
  • Permit type – Is this a new permit or a renewal.
  • A statement under penalty of perjury that the applicant has received, read and understands the provisions of Penal Code Section 326.5.
  • Additional information –Any other details the Chief of Police may require

Application Process

Fees

  • Fee will vary by year according to Master Fee schedule

Processing Time

  • Typical processing time is 30 calendar days

Related Permits

  • Special Event Permit
  • If your bingo event involves 75+ attendees, street closures, alcohol, food sales, or large-scale structures, it will be reviewed by the Special Event Team (Police, Fire, Planning, Building, Water Quality, Public Works, Code Enforcement, Engineering, Parks & Rec).
  • Prepare your application with all the details above.
  • Check if it’s a special event. If you are unsure contact the Community Relations Unit at 877-8927 for more information.
  • Submit online via the Permit Center with all required forms and supporting documents. The Community Relations Sergeant will contact you to set up an on-site inspection of the venue and to go over final documents.    

Contact Information


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