(A) Purpose. A special event is one that has a duration which is temporary in nature. A special event permit grants temporary zoning approval to allow for the facilitation of such an event while simultaneously minimizing the impact of the event on community members and to ensure public safety and the delivery of emergency medical services to the public.

(B) Applicability. Obtaining a special event permit for a public or private event taking place on either public or private property shall be required only if the event and associated activities do any of the following:

(1) Prohibit vehicular or pedestrian access and use of public streets, right-of-way, sidewalks;

(2) Require the issuance of one or more permits, licenses, or inspections by any governmental entity for the event and/or event activities (e.g., business license, tent/canopy inspection, temporary food service permit, etc.).

(C) Exemptions.

(1) A special event permit shall not be required for the following:

(a) Funeral processions;

(b) When a city public facility use/rental agreement is executed;

(c) Film/television productions (film/television productions shall be subject to their own distinct permitting process established by the city).

(2) A special event permit does not exempt an event and associated activities from applicable regulations or laws (e.g., noise, maximum occupancy, etc.).

(D) Permit information. The city shall develop and make available a special event permit application that requires the applicant to provide event-related information and details.

(E) Submission. The applicant shall submit a special event permit application no less than 30 days prior to the proposed event start date.

(F) Safety resources. If the city determines that dedicated public safety resources are necessary for an event, the special event permit applicant shall be required to complete a Police/Fire Chief’s overtime agreement prior to the granting of the special event permit and the applicant shall be responsible for all associated law enforcement and/or public safety personnel and vehicle costs in accordance with such an agreement.

(G) Signage. Temporary signage for special events shall be allowed; however, all signs are subject to the regulations in Chapter 156, Sign Regulations.

(H) Term. Special events shall not exceed a maximum of 14 consecutive or nonconsecutive days in operation and no permit shall be granted by the city for a period greater than 30 calendar days. Approval to exceed the maximum time allowed to conduct a special event shall be obtained from the city prior to the last day of the event.

(I) Fee. The special event permit fee is $35. City of Rio Rancho municipal government funded, organized, or sponsored events shall be exempt.

(Ord. 18-20)