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What is a Special Event?

Our Special Event Ordinance was adopted to assist the Community in providing and coordinating year- round events for the public by ensuring events are both safe and meet the basic needs of participants.

An event may be required to obtain approvals and permits for adequate parking and traffic flow, sanitation, security, law enforcement, fire and safety protection.

When is a Special Event Permit Required?

A Town Special Event permit is required for all public activities conducted on public and/or commercial property that meet the following criteria:

  • The event is an outdoor; and
  • The expected number of participants and spectators totals 250 or more people.
    • Final attendance estimate may be determined by the Town.

Special Event Fees

  • Special Event Permit Fee - $100
  • Special Event Bond - $500
    • This fee will be refunded if the site is not damaged.
  • Non-profit organizations are exempt from above fees.
    • 501C documents must be submitted with special event permit application.

Application Deadlines

Special Event Applications must be submitted at least 30 days prior to your event or up to a year in advance.

Additional Special Event Requirements

You may not be required to obtain a Town Special Event permit, but may be required to obtain other Town permits.

If the event meets any of the following criteria you may still be required to obtain a permit, approval, or both from one or more Town departments.

Special Event Frequently Asked Questions

The special event permit can be paid with a credit card. However, the special event bond and any escrows must be paid in cash or check because they are potentially refundable funds.

A special event permit will allow amplified sound from 10 am - 11 pm

Yes. Addtionally, your event would need to abide by the Town's Beach Ordinance regulations.

View the Town's Beach Ordinance

The Town has four special event signs around the Island to announce upcoming special events.

Signs may only announce events sponsored by nonprofit or public entity or a public service announcement.

Submit a Town Special Event Sign Space Application


Questions?

Contact the Town's Special Event Coordinator, Eileen Buckalew at EileenB@hiltonheadislandsc.gov or 843-341-4639