Frequently Asked Questions: Block Party Permits

PBOT Block Party FAQs

If you still have questions after reading this page, please email us at PBOTblockparty@portlandoregon.gov or call 503-823-4003. 

For more detailed information, visit the Learn About Block Party permits page.

Applications & Timing

When should I apply?

You must apply at least 15 days prior to your event. If your application is received with less than 15 days' notice, we cannot guarantee that you will receive a permit in time for your party. If the location of your street closure requires a custom traffic control plan, it may take us more time to process your application and issue your permit.

I need to make changes to my application. How do I update after it's submitted?

The easiest way to request an update is to reply to the confirmation email you received after submitting your application. Please be sure to include all the details that you would like to have updated.  Alternatively, you may email PBOTblockparty@portlandoregon.gov with your request. 

*Please note: If you are requesting a new date or location, this may delay the processing of your permit.

I registered my party with "Party On, Portland." Do I need to apply for a Block Party permit?

Yes. You must apply for a Block Party permit to close your street. Your "Party On, Portland" registration does not include a Block Party permit.

Eligibility & Types of Permits

I am under 18 years old. Can I apply?

No. If you are under 18 years old, you must have a parent, guardian, or another adult neighbor apply for the permit. In general, minors cannot enter into legally binding contracts, so an adult must apply for the permit and agree to the permit requirements on your behalf.

Can I host a private block party?

No. To qualify for a permit, a block party must be free and open to the public. All neighbors on the affected block must be notified at least 3 days in advance.

I am a business wanting to host a Block Party. Do I qualify?

No. If you are a business that would like to host a party in the public right of way, you must apply for a Community Event permit.

I am a community-focused organization. Can I host a Block Party?

Yes. Relaxed rules now allow neighborhood associations, faith-based organizations, non-profits, and schools to apply if the event fits the basic Block Party permit requirements.

I'm organizing a yard sale for my block. Do we qualify for a Block Party permit?

Possibly! A yard sale, consisting of neighbors selling their own used household items, may qualify for a Block Party permit if the event fits the basic Block Party permit requirements.

Can I host recurring block parties?

Yes. Recurring parties* can be permitted for up to one month at a time, not to exceed 8 hours per week. Recurring block parties must meet the basic Block Party permit requirements. If you'd like to continue hosting parties beyond the initial month, you can reapply on a month-to-month basis. Neighbor feedback may be considered when evaluating future permit applications. 

*Example: "Hosting every Saturday during the month of June, from 12pm-5pm"

Street Closure & Event Layout

Do I have to close the entire street?

No. You can request a full or partial street closure, but all residents on the block must be notified. In some cases, a partial street closure may require a custom traffic control plan, or a traffic engineer may require a full closure for safety.

Can I close more than one block?

Yes. To qualify for a Block Party permit, your street closure must be 1 or 2 blocks maximum. Exceptions exist for street painting projects: Street paintings may close 4 blocks, for up to 16 hours in a single week.

Can I close just a sidewalk or incorporate sidewalks in my event?

No. Sidewalks must remain open and unobstructed to qualify for a Block Party permit.

Cars & Parking

There are cars parked where we would like to host our party. Can we ask them to move?

We encourage applicants to engage with neighbors, including coordinating any temporary parking adjustments. Please be aware that Block Party permits are not intended for parking enforcement, and do not authorize the towing of vehicles.

I live in a metered parking area. Can I apply for a Block Party permit?

Yes. The City of Portland has expanded the areas for metered parking in 2019-2020. To accommodate neighborhoods with new metered parking spaces, we've extended our services to allow for Block Party permits in metered parking areas on a case-by-case basis. Just apply as per normal, and we'll follow up if there are any potential issues with issuing your permit.

Traffic Control & Safety

Does PBOT provide barricades and street signs?

No. Party hosts are responsible for obtaining all required traffic control devices, including barricades and signage. Hosts are also responsible for setting up and removing street closures. PBOT does not provide these materials. Learn more about barricades and signage here.

Paying for traffic control devices is a financial challenge for me. What are my options?

We understand that the cost of traffic control devices can be a significant barrier to hosting a party. Some options include:

1. Consider another nearby location. If your location requires a custom traffic control plan, check with neighbors on nearby blocks. Someone in your neighborhood may be open to hosting the party on their street instead. If the block is surrounded by local service streets, you may be able to use household objects to close your street.
2. Ask neighbors to help with the cost. You can consider asking neighbors if they're willing to contribute towards the cost of barricade rentals. Reach out to different vendors for price quotes to find the best price for your budget. To get started, you can visit the Basic Traffic Control Devices and Vendors page for visual examples, descriptions, and a list of local vendors.
3. Check with your neighborhood association. Your local neighborhood association may have barricades or other traffic control equipment available to borrow.

If you have questions, please reach out to PBOTblockparty@portlandoregon.gov or 503-823-4003. We're happy to talk through your specific situation and help you understand what may be possible!

My party extends into dusk hours. Will this affect my street closure?

Yes. If your permit extends into dusk or evening hours, you must use approved barricades equipped with retroreflective tape and flashing lights. Learn more about barricade and signage requirements here.

Amenities & Special Considerations

Can I sell or serve alcohol?

No. Alcohol is not permitted in the public right of way (street or sidewalks) during a Block Party. Alcohol consumption must always remain on private property. If you wish to sell or serve alcohol in the public right of way, apply for a Community Event permit.

Can I have a food vendor at my Block Party?

Yes. Block parties may have one permitted food vendor. The food vendor must have the required permits to operate at your event.

If you wish to have more than one commercial vendor (of any kind) participate in your event, apply for a Community Event permit.

I'd like to have amplified music at my event.

If you plan to have amplified sound, you may need to apply for a noise variance permit. Contact Noise Control at 503-823-7350 or visit Noise Control for more information.

Do I need event insurance?

Possibly. Event insurance is optional for a Block Party permit, except for specific cases where there may be increased risks of injury or property damage. Common examples include bounce houses, slides, and other rented equipment. Learn more about event insurance here.

Miscellaneous

I have questions about a Block Party happening in my neighborhood. What should I do?

If you have questions, concerns, or accommodation requests related to a Block Party happening on your street, we recommend reaching out to the party host directly.

Hosts are encouraged to proactively communicate with neighbors and notify all residents of the affected block at least 3 days before their permit starts. This gives neighbors time to ask questions and know what to expect during the party.

If speaking with your neighbor is not an option, please reach out to PBOTblockparty@portlandoregon.gov or 503-823-4003.