CC SR 20190903 05 - Special Event Permit Policy01203.0001/575641.2
RANCHO PALOS VERDES CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: 09/03/2019
AGENDA REPORT AGENDA HEADING: Regular Business
AGENDA DESCRIPTION:
Consideration and possible action to introduce an ordinance revising the special event
permit process
RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
(1) Introduce Ordinance No. _________, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA, REPEALING AND
REPLACING CHAPTER 12.20 (SPECIAL EVENT PERMITS) OF TITLE 12
(STREETS, SIDEWALKS AND PUBLIC PLACES) OF THE RANCHO PALOS
VERDES MUNICIPAL CODE.
FISCAL IMPACT: No impact
Amount Budgeted: $0
Additional Appropriation: N/A
Account Number(s): N/A
ORIGINATED BY: Matt Waters, Senior Administrative Analyst
REVIEWED BY: Cory Linder, Director of Recreation & Parks
APPROVED BY: Doug Willmore, City Manager
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
A. Draft revised Special Event Permit Ordinance (page A-1)
B. July 16, 2019 special event staff report (page B-1)
C. July 16, 2019 draft Special Event Permit Ordinance (page C-1)
D. Redlined version of Special Event Permit Ordinance showing changes to
July 16, 2019 ordinance (page D-1)
E. Municipal Code Chapter 12.16 Streets, Parks and Recreational Facilities
(page E-1)
F. Park Rules (page F-1)
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION:
On May 3, 2016, the City Council conducted a public hearing to consider the
introduction and adoption of a Special Event Permit Ordinance for events in public
rights-of-way and City properties. Ordinance No. 581 (Attachment C), which added a
new chapter entitled “Special Event Permits” to Title 12 of the Municipal Code , was
adopted on May 17, 2016. Ordinance No. 581 was established to provide a coordinated
process for “managing community events to ensure the public health, safety and welfare
1
of event patrons, residents and other visitors, and to provide for fees, charges and
procedures required to administer the permit process.”
Ordinance No. 581 also established a Special Events Task Force (Task Force)
consisting of representatives of the Public Works, Community Development, and
Recreation and Parks departments to review special event applications.
On March 7, 2017, the City Council directed Staff to return with a report on potential
amendments to the Special Event Ordinance and policy. The emphasis was on
increasing enforcement of special event permit violations, particularly via the use of
citations, which was not mentioned in the 2016 ordinance.
At its May 1, 2018, meeting, the City Council directed Staff to return with a draft
ordinance that addressed the following concerns:
Special event enforcement citations
Codified usage/size limitation policies
Staff returned with a Staff report and revised ordinance on July 16, 2019, that attempted
to address the following issues (Attachments B and C):
Setting attendance limits without permits on a park-by-park basis ranging from
20-30 people
Setting limits for free speech events without permits on a park-by-park basis
ranging from 50-300 people
Setting maximum attendance figures on a park-by-park basis ranging from 20-
1,000 people
More detailed guidelines and limitations for free speech events
Limits/restrictions for public rights-of-way and the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
(Preserve)
Identification of park sites that would not be available for public special events
The City Council directed Staff to narrow the types of events that require a Special
Event Permit, with consideration of any existing ordinances aimed at curbing public
nuisance conduct at City parks, and to examine raising thresholds from the proposed
20-30 person range and to focus more on what are appropriate and inappropriate uses
of park and Preserve sites.
The question of what uses are currently disallowed in City parks and open spaces was
raised at the July 16, 2019, meeting. Regardless of the number of users, there is
already a robust and lengthy list of activities that are not allowed. Chapter 12.16 Streets,
Parks and Recreational Facilities (Attachment E) includes the following restrictions:
Posted hours
Motorized vehicles
Radio-controlled models
2
Dogs and pets
Aircraft
Fires
Biking
Nudity
Hunting
Skateboarding
Reckless use of trails
Overnight camping without permission
Other City ordinances limit or ban other activities such as smoking or alcohol (approved
by the City Council on August 6, 2019, and going into effect on September 6, 2019).
There are many other park rules, such as no bounce houses, golfing or hammocks that
have not been incorporated into the Municipal Code but are enforced by park staff
(Attachment F).
The Public Use Management Plan (PUMP) restricts a number of activities in the
Preserve including:
Archery
Geocaching
Paintball
Paragliding or parasailing
Hunting
Camping/campfires
Bicycle jumps
Commercial or industrial use
Reckless use of trails
In light of the existing regulations cited, the definition of special events that require a
special event permit was clarified and narrowed. The goal is to require permits to control
the impacts of larger, organized events rather than informal gatherings of families or
friends. The updated definition reads:
“Special event” includes, but is not limited to any of the following one-time,
recurring or annual events:
(i) A commercial event (e.g., a fair, carnival, farmers market)
(ii) A spectator sport (e.g., beach volleyball, hockey, basketball, surfing
competition)
(iii) Any organized athletic event (e.g., a race, run, soccer game, baseball game)
3
(iv) A community event (e.g., a beach/park cleanup, sandcastle building contest,
a hike or nature walk)
(iv) Parades
(v) Any mixed free speech special event
(vi) Any event above the attendance threshold provided for in Table 12.20.040 -1.
(vii) Any event that: (a) will use amplified sound, (b) may interfere with traffic,
ingress, or egress; or (3) will use structures or equipment that require health and
safety inspections.
Additionally, based on feedback from the July 16, 2019, meeting and review by the
Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy and wildlife agencies, the ordinance,
particularly the attendance table, has been significantly modified in the following ways:
Special event thresholds have been raised at all park sites to address concerns
that modest-sized groups, such as a family picnic of 25 people, could potentially
be cited. Since such an appropriate and desirable use was not the target of the
ordinance, raising the threshold effectively limits the possibility of such a group
being targeted. Thresholds ranges have been increased from 20-30 people to
50-100 people as shown in the table below.
Examples of Increased Special Event Thresholds
Park Site 7-16-2019 Revised 9-3-19
Hesse Park 30 100
Ryan Park 20 75
Ladera Linda 20 50
Free speech maximum attendance limits were lowered at certain park sites and
in the Preserve as shown below. These adjusted maximums were set due to
each site’s capacity and parking, and in the case of the Preserve, the potential
for habitat impact:
Park Site 7-16-19
Free Speech
Max
7-16-19
All Events Max
Revised 9-3-19
Free Speech Max
Revised 9-3-19
All Events Max
Civic Center 1,000 500 500 500
Lower Pt.
Vicente (PVIC)
1,000 500 500 500
Nature
Preserve
40 20 20 20
4
Below is the revised special event table. This report includes a redlined version of the
revised ordinance version showing changes to the July 16, 2019, draft ordinance
(Attachment D).
Table 12.20.040-1
Location Special Event Permit
(12.20.040; 12.20.060;
12.20.070)
Permit Threshold
Free Speech
Special Event
(12.20.040;
12.20.080) Free
speech permit
threshold:
Maximum
Attendance (all
events)
Permits are required for all events at locations 1 through 7 that meet the anticipated attendance indicated,
and/or for all events that (a) use amplified sound, (b) may interfere with traffic, ingress, or egress; or (3) will
use structures that require health and safety inspections.
1. Public right-of-way 100 300 N/A
2. Civic Center (Upper Point Vicente
Park/City Hall)
100 300 500
3. Hesse Park 100 300 500
4. Lower Point Vicente Park (Point
Vicente Interpretive Center outside of
Preserve)
100 300 500 for free
speech events
500 for all other
special events
5. Robert Ryan Park 75 150 200
6. Ladera Linda Park 50 50 200
7. Eastview Park 50 50 200
Special limitations for the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
8. Palos Verdes Nature Preserve:
Hikes, nature walks, and park
cleanups as permitted under the
NCCP/HCP. No other events are
permitted.
Maximum event/group
attendance: 20 people
Not a permissible
use in the Preserve
20
Permits may be required for Free Speech Special Events at locations 9 through 15 that are likely to meet the
attendance thresholds as indicated below.
No events are permitted at these locations that (a) exceed the attendance threshold; (b) use amplified
sound, (c) may interfere with traffic, ingress or egress; or (d) use structures that require health and safety
inspections.
5
Location Special Event Permit
(12.20.040; 12.20.060;
12.20.070)
Permit Threshold
Free Speech
Special Event
(12.20.040;
12.20.080) Free
speech permit
threshold:
Maximum
Attendance (all
events)
9. Del Cerro Park Maximum event/group
attendance: 50 people
50 200 for free
speech events
only
50 for all other
events/groups
10. Frank S. Vanderlip Park No permit required
Maximum event/group
attendance: 50 people
50 200 for free
speech events
only
50 for all other
events/groups
11. Abalone Cove picnic area and
preschool/lifeguard area
Maximum event/group
attendance: 50 people
50 200 for free
speech events
only
50 for all other
events/groups
12. Marilyn Ryan Sunset Park No permit required
Maximum event/group
attendance: 50 people
50 200 for free
speech events
only
50 for all other
events/groups
13. Founders Park Maximum event/group
attendance: 50 people
50 200 for free
speech events
only
50 for all other
events/groups
14. Grandview Park No permit required
Maximum event/group
attendance: 50 people
50 200 for free
speech events
only
50 for all other
events/groups
15. Pelican Cove No permit required
Maximum event/group
attendance: 50 people
50 200 for free
speech events
only
50 for all other
events/groups
6
In addition to the changes indicated earlier, the chart establishes the following:
Criteria that would trigger a special event permit on a location -by-location basis,
based on attendance and impact. An acceptable limit and range of allowable
activities for an active park, such as Hesse Park, would be higher than that of a
modest pocket park, such as Frank S. Vanderlip Park.
Attendance levels for free speech events, which are often deliberately higher
thresholds than regular special event permits, in order to avoid unwanted
constraints on constitutional First Amendment rights
A special event permit review process will also be required if there is amplified
sound, traffic or ingress/egress impacts, or structures/equipment that require
health and safety inspection, irrespective of attendance
A number of parks may not hold special events, such as Frank S. Vanderlip Park
and Del Cerro Park, based on their size, parking capabilities, and/or sensitivity of
habitat, although City-sponsored events and free speech events are allowed at
all sites
Establishes a maximum number of attendees that does not require a permit
(provided there is no amplified sound or traffic impact) for each park. This
number ranges from 50-100 people, which is an increase from the 20-30 person
range presented in the July 16, 2019 report.
The revised ordinance does not allow for special permitted use of open space
and the Preserve and sets a comparatively low maximum of 20 for free speech
events due to the high likelihood of habitat damage if large groups were allowed
in.
City-approved and mission-aligned groups such as the Sierra Club and scout
troops would be reviewed and permitted on a case -by-case basis.
City-partnered events do not require special event permits.
These limits were selected based on the size of the park or location, type of park , e.g.
developed sites, such as Hesse Park versus undeveloped sites, such as Grandview
Park, existing events (Whale of a Day, Fourth of July) and normal use/capacity. Policies
adopted by other cities were studied as well. Along with those factors, potential impacts
on adjacent residents along with the City Council’s park policy of “less is more” were
considered in setting the trigger points for mandatory special event permits at
conservative levels or in not allowing special event permits at all. Events will not be
allowed that exceed the capacity of a park or its infrastructure, or if it causes adverse
impacts to the surrounding neighborhood and community. These levels are admittedly
trial recommendations, and should be re-examined within a year of their establishment
to gauge their appropriateness and effectiveness.
Free Speech
As mentioned previously, the revised ordinance presented tonight includes lowered free
speech attendance number thresholds at several sites. Tonight’s revised ordinance, as
well as the version presented on July 16, proposed a number of revisions (detailed
7
below) to the 2016 ordinance intended to provide more clear guidance regarding free
speech events.
Mixed free speech events and parades shall be subject to the special event
permit process.
A free speech special event permit shall be required if the proposed event may
impede, obstruct, impair or interfere with the free use of any public street, highway,
alley, sidewalk, or other public right-of-way, or with ingress or egress to the same.
A free speech permit will also be required if the proposed event exceeds the
maximum attendance for the event’s proposed location as listed in the ordinance
chart.
Free speech special event permit applications are not required for spontaneous
events.
Spontaneous event organizers, to the extent practicable, shall provide the Task
Force with advance notice about the type of event, date, time, duration, location
and/or route, anticipated attendance and identification of public spaces or public
right-of-ways that may be obstructed or closed.
Spontaneous events may not exceed the maximum occupancy for a given location.
The revised ordinance calls for the following information to be provided as part of a free
speech application:
A description of the proposed event
The street or other public property and the specific area or areas thereof to
be utilized in connection with the proposed event
The manner in which the public property will be utilized
The date or dates and the specific times of the proposed event, including
setup and teardown
The name, address and telephone number of the sponsor of the proposed
event
The name, address and telephone number of the person or persons to be
contacted regarding the application or the permit
Anticipated participation, including any animals that may be in attendance
The revised ordinance also added the following free speech special event definition:
“Free speech special event” or “mixed free speech special event” means an event
at which the expression of free speech rights is the principal purpose of the event,
or where free speech is entwined with commercial purposes. Examples of free
speech special events include a parade, protest, speech, or rally; individual street
performers. A mixed free speech special event is one that has a commercial
component, or that is open to the public for entertainment or cultural purposes;
mixed free speech events are not dependent on current events and require time
and logistical support to organize; examples include a circus, outdoor theater, art
fair, or other organized art or entertainment.
8
Additional Changes:
Preserve/Open Space Review: Based on discussions with wildlife agencies,
clarifying language was added in the revised ordinance, stating that special
events in the Preserve “will be evaluated and required to be consistent with the
Natural Community Conservation Plan (NCCP) and Habitat Conservation Plan
(HCP). This language primarily applies to the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve,
non-Preserve open space, and to a lesser extent, parks that are adjacent or
embedded within preserve/open space areas, e.g. Abalone Cove.
Changes to the 2016 Special Event Permit Ordinance
Exemption and Waivers
An exemption and waivers section was added to the current proposed revision. It was
also included in the July 16, 2019 ordinance (12.20.50).
Special events with an anticipated participation below the thresholds indicated in
Table 12.20.040-1 shall not require a special event permit.
City-partnered events do not require special event permits.
Permits for mission-aligned events, as well as for nonprofit and educational events,
may be subject to reduced or waived fees, as determined by City Council
resolution.
The “Exemptions and waivers” section was modified to clarify that while City
events do not require special event permits, events in the Preserve will still need
to be evaluated and required to be consistent with the NCCP/HCP and all events
will need to be in compliance with City Council approved documents and
regulations. An exemption is also included in section 12.20.050 C stating that the
Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy shall:
“follow the guidelines for Permissive Activity Request for events or
activities as defined in the Management Agreement with the City (i.e.,
events over 100 people). For all other events or activities that comply with
the definition of Permissive Activity and are consistent with the
NCCP/HCP, the PVPLC is not required to obtain a permit nor pay a fee.”
Processing of special event permit applications:
The revised ordinance presented tonight proposes the following changes or additions
be made to Section 12.20.70: Processing of special event permit applications of the
2016 Special Events Ordinance.:
Special events. An application for a special event permit shall be filed at least 30
days prior to the date of a proposed small special event, and at least 90 days prior
to the date of a proposed Large Special Event.
9
Hikes and nature walks. Special event permit applications for hikes and nature
walks in the Preserve or any of the City’s trails may be submitted 15 days prior to
the proposed event.
Recurring special event permits. A special event permit application for recurring
events must be submitted no later than 90 days prior to the start of the recurring
special events. These permits shall only authorize the same type of recurring
event during the year, and is not intended to be a blanket even t permit for the
applicant or sponsor.
Requested dates and times at specific locations shall be reserved on a first-
come, first-served basis. If the date or time requested is not available, the
chairperson shall inform the applicant within five business days and shall suggest
alternative dates and times. Applications for events occurring more than 12
months from the date of the application shall not be accepted.
Special Event Permit Application Form
The following proposed changes have been made to Section 12.20.60: Special event
permit application of the 2016 Special Event Permit Ordinance. These changes will be
made to the special event permit application form when approved.
The requested event date, including the dates and times for setup and cleanup,
and the starting and finishing time of the event. Also include two alternative dates.
If alcoholic beverages are included, provide all applicable licenses and registrations
allowing the sale of alcoholic beverages at the event.
For a commercial or mixed free speech event, a layout showing the locations of
booths, stages, audience, tables and chairs, food court, portable bathrooms and
emergency exits.
Parking and transportation plan as deemed necessary by the Task Force, based on
the anticipated number of participants and the availability of parking at the
proposed location.
For recurring events, the applicant shall also include the following information:
o The frequency of the proposed recurring event, including if available a
schedule with proposed dates and times. Proposed schedules may be
submitted as soon as available, but no later than 15 days prior to the start
of the events.
o The minimum and maximum number of participants for each event
Fee Schedule
The draft ordinance being presented tonight maintains the same special event permit
fee schedule and special event permit application form that was adopted by the City
Council on July 19, 2016. A special event permit fee of $300 was established. Local
nonprofit organizations were granted a 50% waive r and City of Rancho Palos Verdes
homeowner associations were granted a 100% waiver. Indigent persons (as defined in
Municipal Code Section 12.20.030) and free speech events were granted a 100%
waiver. A number of events were exempted from the application process as they are
10
already addressed through other fee and permit processes. These events include film
permits; Recreation and Parks Department-managed weddings, parties, sports leagues;
and events and activities held on private streets.
Enforcement
The City Council previously expressed concern that the 2016 Special Event Ordinance
did not have specific enforcement/citation authority included in its language. Questions
were raised regarding the mechanism for how Staff or the Sheriff’s Department could
cite individuals or groups who were potentially in violation of special event rules or, as is
often the case, had not contacted the City about obtaining permission.
While the current Special Event Ordinance does not have specific citation language, the
City’s Municipal Code allows for generalized citation authority for any code violation.
Assistant City Attorney Elena Gerli confirmed Staff’s interpretation that administrative
citations can be issued for any violation of the Municipal Code. Section 1.16.010 notes
that:
“This chapter provides for an administrative remedy for any violation of this code,
including continuing violations related to building, plumbing, elect rical, or other
similar structural or zoning issues or any violation of any condition of any city
approval. This remedy may be exercised in place of, or in addition to, any
administrative, criminal, civil, or equitable remedy allowed by law. The city attor ney
or city prosecutor or their respective assistants shall have sole discretion to
determine whether a violation will be prosecuted criminally.”
Assistant City Attorney Gerli noted that administrative citations are typically issued by
code officers rather than sheriff’s personnel, but noted that she did not see any reason
why they could not issue such citations.
City Ordinance No. 512 references a “blanket” citation policy setting up a generic
citation penalty schedule for any code violations which do not have a specific
administrative policy. The penalty schedule consists of the following:
$100 for a first violation
$200 for a second violation, and
$500 for a third violation with a 12-month period from the first violation.
The following enforcement and appeal changes to the 2016 ordinance were made to the
draft revised ordinance being presented tonight:
Violations of this chapter shall be charged to the applicant and/or sponsor of the
event pursuant to Chapters 1.08 and 1.16 of this code, as well as any other
remedies available to the City at law or equity.
In addition to the penalties provided for in Chapters 1.08 and 1.16 of this code,
sponsors, applicants or participants of an event may be cited and/or ejected from
11
the public property for violations of this chapter after notice and an opportunity to
cure the violation.
A decision regarding a special event permit application may be appealed in writing
to the City Manager within 10 calendar days of the Task Force’s decision for large
special events and within five calendar days of the Task Force’s decision for small
special events.
The City Manager shall make a decision on the appeal within 10 calendar days of
receipt of the appeal for large special events and within five calendar days of
receipt of the appeal for small special events.
The decision of the City Manager shall be final, and is subject to judicial review
pursuant to Section 1094.5 and 1094.6 of the Code of Civil Procedure.
The existing special event permit application form will be updated and made available to
the public at park sites and on the City’s website if the revised ordinance is approved.
ALTERNATIVES:
In addition to the Staff recommendation, the following alternative action is available for
the City Council’s consideration:
1) Make no changes to the existing Special Event Permit Ordinance
2) Provide other direction to Staff on Special Event Permit Ordinance
12
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO
PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA, REPEALING AND REPLACING
CHAPTER 12.20 (SPECIAL EVENT PERMITS) OF TITLE 12 (STREETS,
SIDEWALKS AND PUBLIC PLACES) OF THE RANCHO PALOS
VERDES MUNICIPAL CODE.
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes recognizes the
substantial community benefit that may result from community events, which can
provide cultural enrichment and economic vitality and can enhance community identity.
WHEREAS, the City Council wishes to update the City’s coordinated processes
for managing community events to ensure the public health, safety, and welfare of event
patrons, residents and other visitors, and to provide for fees and procedures required to
administer the permit process.
WHEREAS, with this ordinance, the City Council does not intend to change the
rules for ordinary use of public property.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS
VERDES DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The facts set forth in the Recitals of this Ordinance are true and
correct, and incorporated herein.
SECTION 2. Chapter 12.20 (Special Event Permits) of Title 12 (Streets, Sidewalks
and Public Places) is repealed and replaced with the following:
Chapter 12.20
SPECIAL EVENT PERMITS
Sections:
12.20.010 Title.
12.20.020 Purpose.
12.20.030 Definitions.
12.20.040 Special Event Permit required.
12.20.050 Exemptions and waivers.
12.20.060 Special Event Permit application.
12.20.070 Processing of Special Event Permit applications.
12.20.080 Free Speech Special Event Permit application.
12.20.090 Special Event Task Force.
12.20.100 Special Event Permit fees and charges.
12.20.110 Revocation.
12.20.120 Enforcement.
12.20.130 Appeal.
12.20.140 Hold Harmless.
A-1
12.20.150 Insurance Requirements for Special Events.
12.20.010 Title.
This chapter shall be known as the Special Event Permits Ordinance.
12.20.020 Purpose.
A. It is the purpose of this chapter to provide for the issuance of Special Event Permits
to regulate large, organized events on the public streets and public property of the
City; and to provide for fees, charges, and procedures required to administer the
permit process. This ordinance shall not be interpreted to require picnics and
impromptu gatherings at public parks to obtain a permit. Large groups who wish to
reserve specific areas in public parks may do so through the Recreation & Parks
Department of the City.
B. It is further the purpose of this chapter to provide for expedited procedures for Free
Speech Special Events, while also providing for the protection and preservation of
public spaces and public resources.
12.20.030 Definitions.
The following words and phrases when used in this chapter shall mean:
“Amplified sound” means music or speech projected or transmitted by electronic
equipment, including, but not limited to, an amplifier, loudspeakers, or similar devices.
“Annual event” means an event recurring each year at approximately the same date.
“Applicant” means the event sponsor or the sponsor’s authorized agent who completes
the permit application and acts as primary contact for a Special Event.
“City-partnered event” means an event organized and run by a non-profit organization in
conjunction with the City, where the City provides sponsorship or partnership and retains
control over how the event(s) is run and/or publicized. Examples include nature hikes in
the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve led by Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy
docents and Los Serenos Docent hikes and tours.
“City Manager” means the City Manager of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, and shall
include his/her designee.
“Event participants” means persons in attendance at an event, including spectators,
vendors, event staff, City staff, and all others present for the purpose of the event. Any
persons in attendance at an event for the purpose of protesting the event shall not be
considered event participants.
01203.0001/575642.1 Ordinance No.
Page 2 of 18
A-2
“Fair/carnival” means a traveling enterprise offering amusements, or a gathering of buyers
and sellers, held at a temporary location for one or more days.
“Free speech” means speech and expressive conduct protected by the First Amendment
of the United States Constitution or by Article 1, Section 2 of the California Constitution.
“Free Speech Special Event” means an event at which the expression of free speech
rights is the principal purpose of the event, and that satisfies one or more of the following:
(i) the event meets the threshold attendance pursuant to Table 12.20.040-1; (ii) the event
requires the use of amplified sound; (iii) the event may interfere with traffic or obstruct
ingress or egress to a property or structure; or (iv) the event will use any structure or
equipment that requires a health & safety inspection. Examples of Free Speech Special
Events include, but are not limited to: a protest, speech, or rally that requires traffic control;
individual street performers.
“Indigent person” means: (1) a person who is receiving benefits pursuant to the
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and State Supplemental Payments (SSP) programs
(Sections 12200 to 12205, inclusive, of the California Welfare and Institutions Code), the
California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids Act (CalWORKs) program
(Chapter 2, commencing with Section 11200 of Part 3 of Division 9 of the California
Welfare and Institutions Code), the Food Stamp program (7 U.S.C. Section 2011 et seq.)
or Section 17000 of the Welfare and Institutions Code; (2) a person whose monthly
income is 125% or less of the current monthly poverty line annually established by the
Secretary of Health and Human Services pursuant to the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation
Act of 1981, as amended.
“Mission-aligned event” means an event (one-time, recurring, or annual) that takes place
in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve and/or within the City trails system, and that is
organized and run by a nonprofit entity whose mission is aligned with the City’s goals of
habitat and sensitive species preservation and protection of the City’s open spaces.
Examples include nature hikes by the Sierra Club, and the Boy Scouts of America.
“Mixed Free Speech Special Event“ means an event that has both a free speech
component and a commercial component, or that is open to the public for entertainment
or cultural purposes; Mixed Free Speech Special Events are not dependent on current
events and require time and logistical support to organize and include, but are not limited
to: (i) a circus; (ii) outdoor theater; (iii) an art fair.
“NCCP/HCP” means the March 2018 City of Rancho Palos Verdes Natural Community
Conservation Plan/Habitat Conservation Plan.
“Parade” means a public procession, typically celebrating a special day or event and
including marching bands and floats, in the public right-of-way.
“PVPLC” means the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy.
01203.0001/575642.1 Ordinance No.
Page 3 of 18
A-3
“Race/run” means an organized competitive event upon a public street, sidewalk,
walkway, or other publicly owned property including City parks, in which persons
participate by walking, running, riding a bicycle or horse, or operating a wheelchair.
“Recurring event” means an event that will occur repeatedly within a one-year period.
“Special Event” includes, but is not limited to any of the following one-time or recurring or
annual events:
(i) A commercial event (e.g., a fair, carnival, farmers market).
(ii) A spectator sport (e.g., beach volleyball, hockey, basketball, surfing
competition).
(iii) Any organized athletic event (e.g., races, runs, soccer games, baseball
games).
(iv) A community event (e.g., beach/park clean up, sandcastle building contest, a
hike or nature walk).
(iv) Parades.
(v) Any Mixed Free Speech Special Event.
(vi) Any event above the attendance threshold provided for in Table 12.20.040-1.
(vii) Any event that: (a) will use amplified sound, (b) may interfere with traffic,
ingress, or egress; or (3) will use structures or equipment that require health &
safety inspections.
“Sponsor” means the person or group responsible for or organizing the Special Event.
“Spontaneous event” means a Free Speech Event occasioned by news or events coming
into public knowledge 4 business days or fewer prior to such event.
“Task Force” means the Special Events Task Force as constituted by this code.
“Transportation management/parking plan” means a plan developed by the special event
sponsor to identify and mitigate traffic/parking impacts associated with a special event.
12.20.040 Special Event Permit required.
A. Special Events on public property require a Special Event Permit, pursuant to
Sections 12.20.060 and 12.20.070. All permits will be in compliance with all City
Council approved documents and regulations.
Commented [A1]: Changes to A & B requested by Ara after
meeting with Wildlife Agencies today
01203.0001/575642.1 Ordinance No.
Page 4 of 18
A-4
B. Free Speech Special Events on public property require a Free Speech Special
Event Permit and shall be subject to the alternative permitting provisions of Section
12.20.080. All permits will be in compliance with all City Council approved
documents and regulations.
Table 12.20.040-1
Location Special Event Permit
(12.20.040; 12.20.060;
12.20.070)
Free Speech
Special Event
(12.20.040;
12.20.080)
Maximum
Attendance (all
events)
Permits are required for all events at locations 1 through 7 that meet the anticipated attendance indicated,
and/or for all events that (a) use amplified sound, (b) may interfere with traffic, ingress, or egress; or (3) will
use structures that require health & safety inspections.
1. Public right-of-way 100 300 N/A
2. Civic Center (Upper Point Vicente
Park/ City Hall)
100 300 500
3. Hesse Park 100 300 500
4. Lower Point Vicente Park (Vicente
Park Interpretive Center outside of
Preserve)
100 300 500 for Free
Speech Events
500 for all other
Special Events
5. Robert Ryan Park 75 150 200
6. Ladera Linda Park 50 50 200
7. Eastview Park 50 50 200
Special limitations for the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
8. Palos Verdes Nature Preserve:
Hikes, nature walks, and park clean-
ups as permitted under the
NCCP/HCP. No other events are
permitted.
Maximum event/group
attendance: 20 people
Not a permissible
use in the Preserve
20
Permits may be required for Free Speech Special Events at locations 9 through 15 that are likely to meet the
attendance thresholds as indicated below.
No events are permitted at these locations that (a) exceed the attendance threshold; (b) use amplified
sound, (c) may interfere with traffic, ingress or egress; or (d) use structures that require health & safety
inspections.
01203.0001/575642.1 Ordinance No.
Page 5 of 18
A-5
Location Special Event Permit
(12.20.040; 12.20.060;
12.20.070)
Free Speech
Special Event
(12.20.040;
12.20.080)
Maximum
Attendance (all
events)
9. Del Cerro Park Maximum event/group
attendance: 50 people.
50 200 for Free
Speech Events
only
50 for all other
events/groups
10. Frank S. Vanderlip Park No permit required.
Maximum event/group
attendance: 50 people.
50 200 for Free
Speech Events
only
50 for all other
events/groups.
11. Abalone Cove picnic area and
preschool/lifeguard area
Maximum event/group
attendance:50 people.
50 200 for Free
Speech Events
only
50 for all other
events/groups
12. Marilyn Ryan Sunset Park No permit required.
Maximum event/group
attendance: 50 people.
50 200 for Free
Speech Events
only
50 for all other
events/groups
13. Founders Park Maximum event/group
attendance: 50 people.
50 200 for Free
Speech Events
only
50 for all other
events/groups
14. Grandview Park No permit required.
Maximum event/group
attendance: 50 people.
50 200 for Free
Speech Events
only
50 for all other
events/groups
15. Pelican Cove Park No permit required.
Maximum event/group
attendance: 20 people.
50 200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
12.20.050 Exemptions and waivers.
01203.0001/575642.1 Ordinance No.
Page 6 of 18
A-6
A. City-partnered events do not require Special Event Permits; however, they will still
need to be in compliance with all City Council approved documents and
regulations.
B. Permits for mission-aligned events, as well as for nonprofit and educational events,
may be subject to reduced or waived fees, as determined by City Council
resolution.
C. The PVPLC shall follow the guidelines for Permissive Activity Request for events
or activities as defined in the Management Agreement with the City (i.e., events
over 100 people). For all other events or activities that comply with the definition
of Permissive Activity and are consistent with the NCCP/HCP, the PVPLC is not
required to obtain a permit nor pay a fee.
12.20.060 Special Event Permit application.
A. Special Event Permit Application Required. An application must be submitted to the
City by the Special Event Sponsor along with an application fee and an
administrative review fee (if applicable) in the amounts established by City Council
resolution.
An Indigent Person who is unable to pay the application fee due to such indigence
may not be required to pay the fee in accordance with administrative regulations
or guidelines adopted pursuant to this chapter. Application for indigent status shall
be made at the time of submission of the permit application and shall be
accompanied by such relevant information and documentation as may, in the
opinion of the Task Force Chairperson, be reasonably necessary to verify such
status.
B. Application Form and Contents. An application for a Special Event Permit shall be
on a City form and signed by the Applicant who is at least 18 years of age, and
contain all of the following information:
1. The name, address, email address, and daytime telephone number of each
of the following:
a. The Applicant and the Sponsor, if different from the Applicant (also
include evening telephone number),
b. An alternate person to contact if an emergency arises and the
Applicant is unavailable (also include evening telephone number),
c. If applicable: the president, chair or other head of the sponsor
organization; nonprofit documentation (also include written
documentation of the authority under which the Applicant is applying
on behalf of the organization), and
Commented [A2]: Change requested by Ara after he met with
wildlife agencies today
01203.0001/575642.1 Ordinance No.
Page 7 of 18
A-7
d. The person who will be present and in charge of the event on the day
of the event and their contact information during the event.
2. The requested event date, including the dates and times for set-up and
clean-up, and the starting and finishing time of the event. Also include two
alternative dates.
3. The estimated number of participants.
4. A site plan identifying the proposed event and staging locations, including
specific street closures or street routes, if any, or park area requested and
parking areas.
5. A site map showing emergency exit routes.
6. Any City equipment or personnel requested.
7. A description of the planned event.
8. A description of how the event will be promoted and any prior history of
promotions for similar events, including references.
9. The proposed distribution or sale of any food or beverage, including
alcoholic beverages. If alcoholic beverages are included, provide all
applicable licenses and registrations allowing the sale of alcoholic beverages
at the event.
10. The type and estimated number of vehicles, animals, or structures that will
be used.
11. A description and location of any sound amplification equipment proposed to
be used.
12. The location of electrical generators, stages, tents, canopies, cooking
apparatus and lights.
13. The location of mechanical rides, jump houses, or other amusement
attractions.
14. The location of any water, first aid, or comfort station(s) to be provided.
15. For each application for a parade: (i) the time when the units of the parade
will begin to assemble, (ii) the proposed assembly point for the parade, (iii)
the proposed parade route, (iv) the interval space to be maintained between
units of the parade, and (v) the number, type and size of floats or other
vehicles.
01203.0001/575642.1 Ordinance No.
Page 8 of 18
A-8
16. For a commercial or Mixed Free Speech event, a layout showing the
locations of booths, stages, audience, tables and chairs, food court, portable
bathrooms, emergency exits.
17. A preliminary security plan and any monitors to be employed during the
event.
18. Any other information which the Task Force reasonably requires to evaluate
the particular Special Event Permit application. In addition, the Task Force
can waive application requirements that the Task Force determines are
inapplicable.
19. A parking and transportation plan as deemed necessary by the Task Force,
based on the anticipated number of participants and the availability of
parking at the proposed location.
20. For Recurring Events, the Applicant shall also include the following
information:
i. The frequency of the proposed recurring event, including if
available a schedule with proposed dates and times. Proposed
schedules may be submitted as soon as available, but no later than
15 days prior to the start of the events.
ii. The minimum and maximum number of participants for each event.
12.20.070 Processing of Special Event Permit applications.
Special Event Permits will be processed based on the following:
A. Submission timelines.
1. Special Events. An application for a Special Event Permit shall be filed at
least 30 days prior to the date of a proposed Special Event with anticipated
attendance smaller than 100 participants, and at least 90 days prior to the
date of a proposed Special Event with anticipated attendance over 100
participants.
2. Hikes and nature walks. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in
Subsection A.1, above, Special Event Permit applications for hikes and
nature walks in the Preserve or any of the City’s trails may be submitted
15 days prior to the proposed event.
3. Recurring Special Event Permits. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary
in Subsection A.1, above, a Special Event Permit application for recurring
events must be submitted no later than 90 days prior to the start of the
01203.0001/575642.1 Ordinance No.
Page 9 of 18
A-9
Recurring Special Events. These permits shall only authorize the same
type of recurring event during the year, and is not intended to be a blanket
event permit for the Applicant or Sponsor.
4. Requested dates and times at specific locations shall be reserved on a
first come first served basis. If the date or time requested is not available,
the Chairperson shall inform the applicant within 5 business days and
shall suggest alternative dates and times. Applications for events
occurring more than 12 months from the date of the application shall not
be accepted.
B. The Task Force or Chairperson shall meet with the Applicant or Sponsor to review
the application to determine whether additional information is required and discuss
applicable conditions and potential security fees.
C. The Task Force shall make a decision on the application, set any conditions and
fees, and issue the permit. For Special Events with anticipated attendance up to
100 participants, a decision on the Special Event Permit shall be made by the Task
Force no later than 10 calendar days following the submission of a completed
application. For Special Events with anticipated attendance over 100 participants, a
decision on the Special Event Permit shall be made by the Task Force no later than
30 days following submission of a completed application.
D. In deciding whether to approve, or approve with conditions, the Task Force shall
make each of the following findings:
1. The Special Event, as proposed, does not pose a threat to health and
safety.
2. The use of sheriff and/or fire resources to support the event will not deny
reasonable sheriff and fire protection to the City.
3. The Special Event will not adversely interfere with previously City-approved
and/or scheduled construction, maintenance or other activities.
4. The Special Event will not adversely impact the health or safety of
surrounding properties; or the impacts can be significantly mitigated by way
of reasonable permit conditions. Adverse impacts include, but are not limited
to, noise, traffic, parking, trash, and damage to public property,
infrastructure, or facilities.
5. There will be negligible adverse impact on the condition of parks and open
space areas; proposed mitigation by the event Sponsor will be considered.
6. The Special Event shall not adversely impede the public’s reasonable use of
City streets, sidewalks, walkways, trails, and City parks.
01203.0001/575642.1 Ordinance No.
Page 10 of 18
A-10
7. The Special Event is in compliance with the attendance and other event
limitations as indicated in Table 12.20.040-1.
E. Conditions.
1. The Task Force may include in a Special Event Permit reasonable terms or
conditions as to the time, place, and manner of the event, notice
requirements, compliance with health and sanitary regulations, emergency
services, security payment of the Special Event Permit fee, reimbursement
of direct expenses incurred by the City, and a clean-up/damage deposit.
2. Additional permits or security fees may be required by other state or federal
agencies or federal, state, or local laws.
3. In order to accommodate other concurrent events, the rights of abutting
owners and the needs of the public to use streets or parks, the conditions
may include, but not be limited to, reasonable adjustments in the date, time,
route or location of the proposed event; accommodations of pedestrian or
vehicular traffic using the street; accommodations of public access to City
parks, the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve, and the City’s trails; and
limitations on the duration of the event.
4. A notice issued by the City for a Special Event Permit shall be mailed to
property owners located within a 500 foot radius of a fixed event site, a
parade route, or a run/race route describing the event and inviting the public
to comment. The Applicant shall cover the cost, including postage, for the
notice. The notice shall be mailed by first class mail at least 10 calendar
days before the date of a Small Event, and at least 20 calendar days before
the date of a Large Event.
5. Conditions relating to the use of amplified sound to minimize the interference
with the quiet enjoyment of neighboring properties.
6. Conditions relating to maintaining the public property in the same or better
condition after the Special Event. Conditions may address collection of trash,
access to rest facilities, prohibiting access to protected habitat, etc.
7. The Task Force may require a Special Event Permit Sponsor to reimburse
the City for the cost of repairs or habitat remediation needed because of the
Special Event.
F. Recurring Events. The Special Events Task Force may require a trial period before
approving all planned events. In no case shall recurring events be authorized for
more than one year at the time of application.
01203.0001/575642.1 Ordinance No.
Page 11 of 18
A-11
G. An application for a Special Event Permit can be denied on any of the following
grounds:
1. Applicant’s provision of false or misleading information;
2. Conflict with other planned events in the area;
3. Previous Special Event Permit violations by the Applicant or sponsor;
4. Inability to make all the findings for approval set forth above;
5. Exceeding special event attendance limits for a particular location; or
6. The location or park site requested is not eligible for special events.
H. CEQA Review. The Task Force will designate a staff person knowledgeable in the
California Environmental Quality Act to perform an environmental review of the
proposed special event.
12.20.080 Free Speech Special Event Permit application.
A. The following application procedures apply to a Free Speech Special Event only.
Parades and Mixed Free Speech Events shall be subject to the Special Event
Permit provisions of Section 12.20.040 through 12.20.070.
B. A Free Speech Special Event requires a Free Speech Special Event Permit when:
1. The proposed event may impede, obstruct, impair or interfere with the free
use of any public street, highway, alley, sidewalk, or other public right-of-
way, or with ingress or egress to the same; or
2. The proposed event may exceed the maximum attendance without permit
for the location of the event provided for in Table 12.20.040-1.
3. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this chapter, a Free Speech
Special Event Permit is not required for Spontaneous Events. The Sponsor
of a spontaneous event shall provide the Task Force with advance
notification to the extent practicable, as well as the following information: the
type of event; the date, time, and duration of the proposed event; the
location of the event and/or route, including which public spaces or public
right-of-ways may be obstructed or closed; and anticipated participation.
Spontaneous Events at particular locations may not be held that exceed the
maximum occupancy for that location, as provided for in Table 12.20.040-1.
C. A Free Speech Special Event application shall include the following information:
01203.0001/575642.1 Ordinance No.
Page 12 of 18
A-12
1. A description of the proposed event;
2. The street or other public property and the specific area or areas thereof to
be utilized in connection with the proposed event;
3. The manner in which the public property will be utilized;
4. The date or dates and the specific times of the proposed event, including
set-up and tear-down;
5. The name, address and telephone number of the sponsor of the proposed
event;
6. The name, address and telephone number of the person or persons to be
contacted regarding the application or the permit.
7. Anticipated participation, including any animals that may be in attendance.
D. Timing of application. The Applicant shall file a complete application for a Free
Speech Special Event Permit with the Task Force Chairperson as soon as
possible, but no later than 5 business days before the proposed event. The Task
Force shall review the Free Speech Special Event Permit application to establish
reasonable conditions to address health and safety only, notification of the decision,
and appeal from the decision.
E. Task Force’s Decision. The Task Force shall render a decision in accordance with
the findings set forth herein within two business days following the filing of the
completed application.
1. The event, as proposed, will not pose a threat to health and safety;
2. The use of sheriff and/or fire resources to support the event will not deny
reasonable sheriff and fire protection to the City;
3. The event will not interfere with previously City-approved and/or scheduled
construction or maintenance, or with a previously permitted special event;
4. No consideration was given to the message of the event, the content of
speech, the identity or associational relationships of the Applicant, or to any
assumptions or predictions as to the amount of hostility which may be
aroused in the public by the content of the speech or message conveyed by
the event.
5. The event is in compliance with the attendance and other limitations as
provided in Table 12.20.040-1.
01203.0001/575642.1 Ordinance No.
Page 13 of 18
A-13
6. There will be minimal or no adverse impact on the condition of parks and
open space areas, proposed measures to mitigate any adverse impacts
shall be taken into consideration.
F. Notification of Decision. The Task Force Chairperson shall notify the Applicant in
writing (and orally, if possible) of the decision, including a statement of the reasons
for any conditions or the grounds for a denial. If a change in the time or location of
the proposed event would allow approval of the application, the Chairperson shall
propose an alternative to the Applicant. Any conditions shall be directed
G.. Applicant’s Acceptance. The Applicant shall notify the Chairperson in writing of their
acceptance forthwith after written notice of the decision. Once the Applicant
submits a written acceptance of the Task Force’s decision, the Free Speech
Special Event Permit shall be approved and the Chairperson shall notify the City
Council and the City Manager that the permit has been issued.
H. Free Speech Special Events will not be required to comply with any of the
following as a condition of receiving a permit:
1. Any fee or charge required by the City.
2. Any insurance or proof of insurance covering the Free Speech Event, its
organizers, or participants, including the requirements of Section 12.20.150.
3. Any requirement of indemnification or agreement to hold harmless, including
the requirements of Section 12.20.140.
I. Appeal. Any decision relating to the issuance of a Free Speech Special Events
Permit may be appealed to the City Manager. The appeal must be in writing and
must be submitted to the City Manager’s Office within two business days of the
Task Force’s decision. The City Manager shall decide the appeal within one
business day. The City Manager’s decision shall be final.
J. Judicial Review. Decisions regarding a Free Speech Special Event Permit are
eligible for expedited judicial review pursuant to Section 1094.8 of the Code of Civil
Procedure.
12.20.090 Special Event Task Force.
A. A Special Event Task Force is hereby created to carry out the provisions of this code
relating to permits for Special Events, Free Speech Special Events, and Mixed Free
Speech Special Events (collectively, Special Events), is comprised of representatives
of City departments, including, but not limited to, the following departments: Public
Works, Community Development, and Parks and Recreation. The Task Force may
also invite representatives from other City departments, public agencies, or
community or neighborhood organizations to provide comments on proposed special
01203.0001/575642.1 Ordinance No.
Page 14 of 18
A-14
events. Examples of such agencies/organizations include, but are not limited to the
Los Angeles County Sheriff and the Los Angeles County Fire. The Chairperson of
the Task Force shall be a Department Director or the Deputy City Manager, as
designated by the City Manager. The Chairperson shall provide for maintaining Task
Force records, arranging meeting times and places, and issuing a Special Event
Permit on behalf of the Task Force.
B. The Special Event Task Force shall have the power to:
1. Interpret and administer this code;
2. Represent the City, in accordance with procedures adopted by the City
Manager, in discussions and in maintaining agreements with Applicant or
Sponsor;
3. Coordinate with City departments and with other government agencies for the
provision of governmental services for such Special Events;
4. Establish terms and conditions, appropriate security fees and deposits, and
the time(s), place and manner of the Special Event;
5. Approve or deny Special Event Permits;
6. Adopt policies for administering this code as necessary.
12.20.100 Special Event Permit fees and charges.
A. Special Event Permit fees and charges are established by resolution of the City
Council. The application fee must be submitted with the application. Other costs for
City services shall be invoiced to the Applicant no later than 10 calendar days after
the expiration date of the permit. The Applicant shall pay all fees and charges within
30 calendar days of invoice otherwise late fees shall apply.
B. In addition to the payment of any applicable non-refundable permit application fees,
all Applicants or sponsors shall be responsible for paying for all City departmental,
Los Angeles County Sheriff, or Los Angeles County Fire service charges incurred in
connection with or due to the permittee’s activities under the permit.
12.20.110 Revocation.
A Special Event Permit can be revoked by the Task Force for any of the following reasons:
A. Failure to comply with any permitting requirements or conditions of approval;
B. Knowingly providing false, misleading, or fraudulent information;
01203.0001/575642.1 Ordinance No.
Page 15 of 18
A-15
C. Failing to pay required fees, charges, or deposits;
D. Failing to agree to the indemnification provisions or failing to provide proof of
insurance to the extent required; or
E. The event materially changes after a permit has been approved.
12.20.120 Enforcement.
A. Violations of this chapter shall be charged to the Applicant and/or Sponsor of the
event pursuant to Chapters 1.08 and 1.16 of this Code, as well as any other
remedies available to the City at law or equity.
B. In addition to the penalties provided for in Chapters 1.08 and 1.16 of this Code,
Sponsors, Applicants, or Participants of an event may be cited and/or ejected from
the public property for violations of this Chapter after notice and an opportunity to
cure the violation.
12.20.130 Appeal.
A. A decision regarding a Special Event Permit application may be appealed in writing
to the City Manager within 10 calendar days of the Task Force’s decision for Large
Special Events and within 5 calendar days of the Task Force’s decision for Small
Special Events.
B. The City Manager shall make a decision on the appeal within 10 calendar days of
receipt of the appeal for Large Special Events and within 5 calendar days of receipt
of the appeal for Small Special Events.
C. The decision of the City Manager shall be final, and is subject to judicial review
pursuant to Section 1094.5 and 1094.6 of the Code of Civil Procedure.
12.20.140 Hold harmless.
As a condition to the issuance of any permit under this chapter, the Applicant/Sponsor
shall agree to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City, its elected and appointed
officials, employees and agents, against losses and liabilities incurred from the conduct
of the permittee, or its officers, employees, and agents, or claims or liabilities caused by,
or arising out of any activities authorized by any such permit.
12.20.150 Insurance requirements for special events.
The Applicant shall provide general liability insurance naming the City, its elected and
appointed officials, employees, and agents, as an additional insured. Limits of coverage
will be determined by the City Attorney’s office at the time of application. Certificates of
insurance are to be submitted to the City for approval 14 calendar days prior to the day
01203.0001/575642.1 Ordinance No.
Page 16 of 18
A-16
of the event. Acceptability of insurance is subject to approval by the City’s Risk Manager.
This requirement does not apply to Free Speech Events.
SECTION 3. SEVERABILITY. If any section, subsection, subdivision, sentence,
clause, phrase, or portion of this Ordinance or the application thereof to any person or
place, is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court
of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remainder of this
Ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance,
and each and every section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion
thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, subdivisions,
sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions thereof be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 4. EFFECTIVE DATE. This ordinance shall be effective on the thirtieth
(30th) day after the day of its adoption.
SECTION 5. CERTIFICATION. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this
Ordinance and shall cause the same to be posted in the manner required by law.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED this ___ day of ________________ 2019.
Jerry V. Duhovic, Mayor
ATTEST:
Emily Colborn, City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES )
01203.0001/575642.1 Ordinance No.
Page 17 of 18
A-17
I, Emily Colborn, City Clerk of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, do hereby certify that
the whole number of members of the City Council of said City is five; that the foregoing
Ordinance No. , was duly and regularly adopted by the City Council of said
City at a regular meeting thereof held on and that the same was passed and adopted by
the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
______________________________
City Clerk
01203.0001/575642.1 Ordinance No.
Page 18 of 18
A-18
RANCHO PALOS VERDES CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: 07/16/2019
AGENDA REPORT AGENDA HEADING: Regular Business
AGENDA DESCRIPTION:
Consideration and possible action to introduce an ordinance revising the Special Event
Permit process
RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
(1) Introduce Ordinance No. _________, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA, REPEALING AND
REPLACING CHAPTER 12.20 (SPECIAL EVENT PERMITS) OF TITLE 12
(STREETS, SIDEWALKS AND PUBLIC PLACES) OF THE RANCHO PALOS
VERDES MUNICIPAL CODE.
FISCAL IMPACT: No impact
Amount Budgeted: $0
Additional Appropriation: N/A
Account Number(s): N/A
ORIGINATED BY: Matt Waters, Senior Administrative Analyst
REVIEWED BY: Cory Linder, Director of Recreation & Parks
APPROVED BY: Doug Willmore, City Manager
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
A. Draft revised Special Event Permit Ordinance (page A-1)
B. Ordinance No. 581 on Special Event Permits adopted May 17, 2016 (page
B-1)
C. Red-lined version of Special Event Permit Ordinance (page C-1)
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION:
On May 3, 2016, the City Council conducted a public hearing to consider the
introduction and adoption of a Special Event Permit Ordinance for events in public
rights-of-way and City properties. Ordinance No. 581 (Attachment B), which added a
new chapter entitled “Special Event Permits” to Title 12 of the Municipal Code , was
adopted on May 17, 2016. Ordinance No. 581 was established to provide a coordinated
process for “managing community events to ensure the public health, safety and welfare
B-1
of event patrons, residents and other visitors, and to provide for fees, charges and
procedures required to administer the permit process.”
Ordinance No. 581 also established a Special Events Task Force (Task Force)
consisting of representatives of the Public Works, Community Development, and
Recreation and Parks departments. The Task Force’s role was to review special event
permit applications, coordinate and communicate with the applicant and decide on
eventual approval, rejection or possible modification of the proposed event. Special
event permit applications were to be evaluated based on a variety of considerations,
including potential adverse effects, traffic impacts, public safety and effects on event-
adjacent neighbors. Input and approval from the Los Angeles County Sheriff ’s and Fire
departments would be sought out as needed.
On March 7, 2017, the City Council directed Staff to return with a report on potential
amendments to the Special Event Ordinance and policy. The emphasis was on
increasing enforcement of special event permit violations, particularly via the use of
citations. This direction was based on a report of an organized group, commonly
referred to as a “meetup,” that met and ran through the Forrestal Reserve in numbers
estimated to exceed 50. A number of residents complained about the event as not being
appropriate for the location. The group was far in excess of the typical number of people
allowed in the Preserve in a single group. The Special Event Ordinance does not
include any mention of citations. Since that incident, there have been a number of
reports of similar “meetup” events.
At its May 1, 2018 meeting, the City Council directed Staff to return with a draft
ordinance that addressed the following concerns:
Special event enforcement citations
Codified usage/size limitation policies
A section addressing free speech has also been added. A red-lined version of the
proposed changes to the 2016 ordinance can be found in Attachment C.
Park/Open Space Minimum Number/Acceptable Usage Guidelines
At the City Council’s direction, Staff has returned with a revised ordinance that includes
proposed occupancy limits. A one-number-fits-all approach was deemed impractical
given the distinct differences in City parks in both overall size, location, parking and
intended purpose. The 2016 ordinance did not include maximum occupancy limits or
attendance numbers that would trigger a special event permit requirement.
The chart below establishes the following:
Criteria that would trigger a special event permit on a location -by-location basis,
based on attendance and impact. An acceptable limit and range of allowable
B-2
activities for an active park, such as Hesse Park, would be higher than that of a
modest pocket park, such as Frank S. Vanderlip Park.
Attendance levels for free speech events, which are deliberately higher
thresholds than regular special event permits, in order to avoid unwanted
constraints on constitutional First Amendment rights.
A special event permit review process will also be required if there is amplified
sound, traffic or ingress/egress impacts, or structures/equipment that require
health and safety inspection.
A number of parks have been marked exempt from special event permits, such
as Frank S. Vanderlip Park and Del Cerro Park, although City-sponsored events
and free speech events are allowed at all sites.
Establishes a maximum number of attendees that does not require a permit (if
there is no amplified sound, traffic impact or other mitigating factor) for each park.
This number ranges from 20 people at park sites to 100 in the public right-of-way.
The revised ordinance does not allow for special permitted use of open space
and the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve and sets a comparatively low maximum of
40 for free speech events due to the high likelihood of habitat damage if large
groups were allowed in.
City-approved and mission-aligned groups such as the Sierra Club and scout
troops would be reviewed and permitted on a case -by-case basis. The Preserve
policies and thresholds will be submitted for review to wildlife agencies.
City-partnered events do not require special event permits.
Location Special Event (12.20.040;
12.20.060; 12.20.070)
Free Speech Special Event
(12.20.040; 12.20.080)
Maximum
Attendance (all
events)
Public right-of-
way
Permit required when
-- 100 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 500 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health
& safety inspections
N/A
Civic Center
(Upper Point
Vicente Park/
City Hall)
Permit required when
-- 30 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 300 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health
& safety inspections
1000 for Free
Speech Events
500 for all other
Special Events
Hesse Park Permit required when
-- 30 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
Permit required when
-- 300 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
500
B-3
Location Special Event (12.20.040;
12.20.060; 12.20.070)
Free Speech Special Event
(12.20.040; 12.20.080)
Maximum
Attendance (all
events)
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
-- structures that require health
& safety inspections
Lower Point
Vicente Park
(Vicente Park
Interpretive
Center)
Permit required when
-- 30 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 300 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health
& safety inspections
1000 for Free
Speech Events
500 for all other
Special Events
Robert Ryan
Park
Permit required when
-- 20 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 50 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health
& safety inspections
200
Ladera Linda
Park
Permit required when
-- 20 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 50 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health
& safety inspections
200
Eastview Park Permit required when
-- 20 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 50 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health
& safety inspections
200
Palos Verdes
Nature Preserve
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20
people.
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 20 or more people
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health
& safety inspections
40 for Free
Speech Events
20 for all other
events/groups
B-4
Location Special Event (12.20.040;
12.20.060; 12.20.070)
Free Speech Special Event
(12.20.040; 12.20.080)
Maximum
Attendance (all
events)
Del Cerro Park No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20
people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if :
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health
& safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
Frank S.
Vanderlip Park
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20
people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health
& safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups.
Abalone Cove No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20
people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health
& safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
Marilyn Ryan
Sunset Park
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20
people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health
& safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
B-5
Location Special Event (12.20.040;
12.20.060; 12.20.070)
Free Speech Special Event
(12.20.040; 12.20.080)
Maximum
Attendance (all
events)
Founders Park No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20
people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health
& safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
Grandview Park No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20
people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health
& safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
Pelican Cove
Park
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20
people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health
& safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
These limits were selected based on the size of the p ark or location, type of park — e.g.
developed sites, such as Hesse Park vs. undeveloped sites, such as Grandview Park,
existing events (Whale of a Day, Fourth of July) and normal use/capacity. Policies
adopted by other cities were studied as well. Along with those factors, potential impact
on adjacent residents along with the Council’s park policy of “less is more” were
considered in setting the trigger points for mandatory special event permits at
conservative levels or in not allowing special permits at all. Events will not be allowed
that exceed the capacity of a park or its infrastructure, or if it causes adverse impacts to
the surrounding neighborhood and community. These levels are admittedly trial
B-6
recommendations, and should be re-examined within a year of their establishment to
gauge their appropriateness and effectiveness.
The revised ordinance added or expanded on definitions of the following special event-
related terms:
City-partnered event: an event organized and run by a nonprofit organization in
conjunction with the City, where the City provides sponsorship or partnership and
retains control over how the event is run and/or publicized. Examples include
nature hikes in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve led by Palos Verdes Peninsula
Land Conservancy docents.
Covered event: includes, but is not limited to, any of the following one -time,
recurring or annual events: a commercial event (e.g. a fair, carnival, farmers
market), a spectator sport (e.g. beach volleyball, hockey, basketball, surfing
competition), an athletic event (e.g. races, runs), a community event (e.g.
beach/park clean up, sandcastle building, a hike or nature walk); parades; and
mixed free speech events. City-partnered events of any nature shall not be
included in this definition.
Mission-aligned event: an event (one-time, recurring or annual) that takes place in
the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve and/or within the City trails system, and that is
organized and run by a nonprofit entity whose mission is aligned with the City ’s
goals of habitat and sensitive species preservation and protection of the City’s
open spaces. Examples include nature hikes by the Sierra Club and the Boy Scouts of
America.
Special event: any event that requires a special event permit, as provided for in
Section 12.20.40. Small special events shall be events with an anticipated
attendance of 150 or fewer people. Large special events shall be events with an
anticipated attendance of more than 150 people.
Free Speech
The revised ordinance includes a free speech special event permit application designed
to provide more clear guidance regarding free speech events. The revised permit
expands on the existing free speech section of the 2016 ordinance:
Mixed free speech events and parades shall be subject to the special event
permit process.
A free speech special event permit shall be required if the proposed event may
impede, obstruct, impair or interfere with the free use of any public street, highway,
alley, sidewalk, or other public right-of-way, or with ingress or egress to the same.
B-7
A free speech permit will also be required if the proposed event exceeds the
maximum attendance for the event’s proposed location as listed in the ordinance
chart.
Free speech special event permit applications are not required for spontaneous
events.
Spontaneous event organizers shall provide the Task Force with advance notice
about the type of event, date, time, duration, location and/or route, anticipated
attendance and identification of public spaces or public right-of-ways that may be
obstructed or closed.
Spontaneous events may not exceed the maximum occupancy for a given location.
The revised ordinance calls for the following information to be provided as part of a free
speech application:
A description of the proposed event
The street or other public property and the specific area or areas thereof to
be utilized in connection with the proposed event
The manner in which the public property will be utilized
The date or dates and the specific times of the proposed event, including
set-up and tear-down
The name, address and telephone number of the sponsor of the proposed
event
The name, address and telephone number of the person or persons to be
contacted regarding the application or the permit
Anticipated participation, including any animals that may be in attendance
The revised ordinance also added the following free speech special event definition:
“Free speech special event” or “mixed free speech special event” means an event
at which the expression of free speech rights is the principal purpose of the event,
or where free speech is entwined with commercial purposes. Examples of free
speech special events include a parade, protest, speech, or rally; individual street
performers. A mixed free speech special event is one that has a commercial
component, or that is open to the public for entertainment or cultural purposes;
mixed free speech events are not dependent on current events and require time
and logistical support to organize; examples include a circus, outdoor theater, art
fair, or other organized art or entertainment.
Enforcement
The City Council previously expressed concern that the 2016 Special Event Ordinance
did not have specific enforcement/citation authority included in its language. Questions
were raised regarding the mechanism for how Staff or the Sheriff’s Department could
cite individuals or groups who were potentially in violation of special event rules or, as is
often the case, had not contacted the City about obtaining permission.
B-8
While the current Special Event Ordinance does not have specific citation language, the
City’s Municipal Code allows for generalized citation authority for any code violation.
Assistant City Attorney Elena Gerli confirmed Staff’s interpretation that administrative
citations can be issued for any violation of the Code. Section 1.16.010 notes that:
“This chapter provides for an administrative remedy for any violation of this code,
including continuing violations related to building, plumbing, electrical, or other
similar structural or zoning issues or any violation of any condition of any city
approval. This remedy may be exercised in place of, or in addition to, any
administrative, criminal, civil, or equitable remedy allowed by law. The city attorney
or city prosecutor or their respective assistants shall have sole discretion to
determine whether a violation will be prosecuted criminally.”
Assistant City Attorney Gerli noted that administrative citations are typically issued by
code officers rather than sheriff’s personnel, but noted that she did not see any reason
why they could not issue such citations.
City Ordinance 512 references a “blanket” citation policy setting up a generic citation
penalty schedule for any code violations which do not have a specific administrative
policy. The penalty schedule consists of the following:
$100 for a first violation
$200 for a second violation, and
$500 for a third violation with a 12-month period from the first violation.
The following enforcement and appeal changes were made to the draft revised ordinance:
Violations of this chapter shall be charged to the applicant and/or sponsor of the
event pursuant to Chapters 1.08 and 1.16 of this code, as well as any other
remedies available to the City at law or equity.
In addition to the penalties provided for in Chapters 1.08 and 1.16 of this code,
sponsors, applicants or participants of an event may be cited and/or ejected from
the public property for violations of this chapter after notice and an opportunity to
cure the violation.
A decision regarding a special event permit application may be appealed in writing
to the City Manager within 10 calendar days of the Task Force’s decision for large
special events and within five calendar days of the Task Force’s decision for small
special events.
The City Manager shall make a decision on the appeal within 10 calendar days of
receipt of the appeal for large special events and within five calendar days of
receipt of the appeal for small special events.
The decision of the City Manager shall be final, and is subject to judicial review
pursuant to Section 1094.5 and 1094.6 of the Code of Civil Procedure.
While these penalties may act as a deterrent in some cases involving unauthorized
special events, such as a hike meetup group or outdoor exercise class, the amount may
B-9
be too modest to be a significant deterrent to a larger-scale event. Higher citation
thresholds may be needed to deter the potential for a large event, whose organizers
could rationalize a $500 citation as simply the cost of conducting business without a
permit. On a trial basis, Staff is recommending that Ordinance No. 581 be revised to
specify that the above-mentioned “blanket” citation policies be specifically applied to
violations of the special event permit process.
The existing special event permit application form will be updated and made available to
the public at park sites and on the City’s website if the revised ordinance is approved.
Additional Changes:
Exemption and Waivers
An exemption and waivers section was added (12.20.50).
Special Events with an anticipated participation below the thresholds indicated in
Table 12.20.040-1 shall not require a Special Event Permit.
City-partnered events do not require Special Event Permits.
Permits for mission-aligned events, as well as for nonprofit and educational events,
may be subject to reduced or waived fees, as determined by City Council
resolution.
A special event permit fee schedule and special event permit application form was
adopted by the City Council on July 19, 2016. A special event permit fee of $300 was
established. Local nonprofit organizations were granted a 50% waiver and City of
Rancho Palos Verdes homeowner associations were granted a 100% waiver. Indigent
persons (as defined in Municipal Code Section 12.20.030) and free speech events were
granted a 100% waiver. A number of events were exempted from the application
process as they are already addressed through other fee and permit process es. These
events include film permits; Recreation and Parks Department-managed weddings,
parties, sports leagues; and events and activities held on private streets.
Processing of Special Event Permit applications:
The following changes or additions were made to Section 12.20.70: Processing of
Special Event Permit applications:
Special Events. An application for a Special Event Permit shall be filed at least 30
days prior to the date of a proposed Small Special Event, and at least 90 days prior
to the date of a proposed Large Special Event.
Hikes and nature walks. Special event permit applications for hikes and nature
walks in the Preserve or any of the City’s trails may be submitted 15 days prior to
the proposed event.
Recurring special event permits. A special event permit application for recurring
events must be submitted no later than 90 days prior to the start of the recurring
B-10
special events. These permits shall only authorize the same type of recurring
event during the year, and is not intended to be a blanket event permit for the
applicant or sponsor.
Requested dates and times at specific locations shall be reserved on a first-
come, first-served basis. If the date or time requested is not available, the
chairperson shall inform the applicant within five business days and shall suggest
alternative dates and times. Applications for events occurring more than 12
months from the date of the application shall not be accepted.
Special Event Permit Application
The following changes were made to Section 12.20.60: Special Event Permit
application. These changes will be made to the special event permit application form
when approved.
The requested event date, including the dates and times for setup and cleanup,
and the starting and finishing time of the event. Also include two alternative dates.
If alcoholic beverages are included, provide all applicable licenses and registrations
allowing the sale of alcoholic beverages at the event.
For a commercial or mixed free speech event, a layout showing the locations of
booths, stages, audience, tables and chairs, food court, portable bathrooms and
emergency exits.
Parking and transportation plan as deemed necessary by the Task Force, based on
the anticipated number of participants and the availability of parking at the
proposed location.
For recurring events, the applicant shall also include the following information:
o The frequency of the proposed recurring event, including if available a
schedule with proposed dates and times. Proposed schedules may be
submitted as soon as available, but no later than 15 days prior to the start
of the events.
o The minimum and maximum number of participants for each event.
ALTERNATIVES:
In addition to the Staff recommendation, the following alternative action is available for
the City Council’s consideration:
1) Make no changes to the existing Special Event Permit Ordinance.
2) Provide other direction to Staff on Special Event Permit Ordinance.
B-11
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO
PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA, REPEALING AND REPLACING
CHAPTER 12.20 (SPECIAL EVENT PERMITS) OF TITLE 12 (STREETS,
SIDEWALKS AND PUBLIC PLACES) OF THE RANCHO PALOS
VERDES MUNICIPAL CODE.
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes recognizes the
substantial community benefit that may result from community events, which can
provide cultural enrichment and economic vitality and can enhance community identity;
and
WHEREAS, the City Council wishes to update the City’s coordinated processes
for managing community events to ensure the public health, safety, and welfare of event
patrons, residents and other visitors, and to provide for fees and procedures required to
administer the permit process.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS
VERDES DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The facts set forth in the Recitals of this Ordinance are true and
correct, and incorporated herein.
SECTION 2. Chapter 12.20 (Special Event Permits) of Title 12 (Streets,
Sidewalks and Public Places) is repealed and replaced with the following:
Chapter 12.20
SPECIAL EVENT PERMITS
Sections:
12.20.010 Title.
12.20.020 Purpose.
12.20.030 Definitions.
12.20.040 Special Event Permit required.
12.20.050 Exemptions and waivers.
12.20.060 Special Event Permit application.
12.20.070 Processing of Special Event Permit applications.
12.20.080 Free Speech Special Event Permit application.
12.20.090 Special Event Task Force.
12.20.100 Special Event Permit fees and charges.
12.20.110 Revocation.
12.20.120 Enforcement.
12.20.130 Appeal.
12.20.140 Hold Harmless.
12.20.150 Insurance Requirements for Special Events.
B-12
12.20.010 Title.
This chapter shall be known as the Special Event Permits Ordinance.
12.20.020 Purpose.
A. It is the purpose of this chapter to provide for the issuance of Special Event
Permits to regulate events on the public streets and public property of the City;
and to provide for fees, charges, and procedures required to administer the
permit process.
B. It is further the purpose of this chapter to provide for expedited procedures for
Free Speech Special Events, while also providing for the protection and
preservation of public spaces and public resources.
12.20.030 Definitions.
The following words and phrases when used in this chapter shall mean:
“Amplified sound” means music or speech projected or transmitted by electronic
equipment, including, but not limited to, an amplifier, loudspeakers, or similar devices.
“Annual event” means an event recurring each year at approximately the same date.
“Applicant” means the event sponsor or the sponsor’s authorized agent who completes
the permit application and acts as primary contact for a Special Event.
“City-partnered event” means an event organized and run by a non-profit organization in
conjunction with the City, where the City provides sponsorship or partnership and
retains control over how the event(s) is run and/or publicized. Examples include nature
hikes in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve led by Palos Verdes Peninsula Land
Conservancy docents.
“City Manager” means the City Manager of the City of Rancho Palos Ve rdes, and shall
include his/her designee.
“Covered Event” includes, but is not limited to, any of the following one-time or recurring
or annual events: a commercial event (e.g., a fair, carnival, farmers market), a spectator
sport (e.g., beach volleyball, hockey, basketball, surfing competition), an athletic event
(e.g., races, runs), a community event (e.g., beach/park clean up, sandcastle building, a
hike or nature walk); parades; and Mixed Free Speech Events. City-partnered events of
any nature shall not be included in this definition.
“Event participants” means persons in attendance at an event, including spectators,
vendors, event staff, City staff, and all others present for the purpose of the event. Any
B-13
persons in attendance at an event for the purpose of protesting the event shall not be
considered event participants.
“Fair/carnival” means a traveling enterprise offering amusements, or a gathering of
buyers and sellers, held at a temporary location for one or more days.
“Free speech” means speech and expressive conduct protected by the First
Amendment of the United States Constitution or by Article 1, Section 2 of the California
Constitution.
“Free Speech Special Event” or “Mixed Free Speech Special Event” means an event at
which the expression of free speech rights is the principal purpose of the event , or
where free speech is entwined with commercial purposes . Examples of Free Speech
Special Events include a parade, protest, speech, or rally; individual street performers.
A Mixed Free Speech Special Event is one that has a commercial component, or that is
open to the public for entertainment or cultural purposes; mixed free speech events are
not dependent on current events and require time and logistical support to organize;
examples include a circus, outdoor theater, art fair, or other organized art or
entertainment.
“Indigent person” means: (1) a person who is receiving benefits pursuant to the
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and State Supplemental Payments (SSP)
programs (Sections 12200 to 12205, inclusive, of the California Welfare and Institutions
Code), the California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids Act (CalWORKs)
program (Chapter 2, commencing with Section 11200 of Part 3 of Division 9 of the
California Welfare and Institutions Code), the Food Stamp program (7 U.S.C. Section
2011 et seq.) or Section 17000 of the Welfare and Institutions Code; (2) a person whose
monthly income is 125% or less of the current monthly poverty line annually established
by the Secretary of Health and Human Services pursuant to the Omnibus Budget
Reconciliation Act of 1981, as amended.
“Mission-aligned event” means an event (one -time, recurring, or annual) that takes
place in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve and/or within the City trails system, and that
is organized and run by a nonprofit entity whose mission is aligned with the City’s goals
of habitat and sensitive species preservation and protection of the City’s open spaces.
Examples include nature hikes by the Sierra Club and the Boy Scouts of America.
“Parade” means a public procession, typically celebrating a special day or event and
including marching bands and floats, in the public right-of-way.
“Race/run” means an organized competitive event upon a public street, sidewalk,
walkway, or other publicly owned property including City parks , in which persons
participate by walking, running, riding a bicycle or horse, or operating a wheelchair.
“Recurring event” means an event that will occur repeatedly within a one -year period.
B-14
“Special Event” shall mean any event that requires a Special Event Permit, as provided
for in Section 12.20.40. Small Special Events shall be events with an anticipated
attendance of 150 or fewer people. Large Special Events shall be events wi th an
anticipated attendance of more than 150 people.
“Sponsor” means the person or group responsible for or organizing the special event.
“Spontaneous event” means a Free Speech Event occasioned by news or events
coming into public knowledge 4 business days or fewer prior to such event.
“Task Force” means the Special Events Task Force as constituted by this code.
“Transportation management/parking plan” means a plan developed by the special
event sponsor to identify and mitigate traffic/parking impacts associated with a special
event.
12.20.040 Special Event Permit required.
A Special Event Permit must be obtained from the City if the proposed event meets any
of the following criteria (also see Table 12.20.040-1):
A. A Covered Event with an anticipated participation requiring a permit for the
location of the event provided for in Table 12.20.040-1, below.
B. Any event, including a Free Speech Special Event, which may impede, obstruct,
impair or interfere with the free use of any public street, highway, alley, sidewalk,
or other public way, or with an anticipated participation requiring a permit for the
location of the event provided for in Table 12.20.040-1, below.
C. Any event, including a Free Speech Special Event, which involves any activity or
event on public property that requires the placement of a tent, canopy, or other
temporary structure if that placement requires a permit from the City’s Fire
Department or Building and Safety Division.
D. Any event, including a Free Speech Special Event, which will use amplified
sound.
E. All events, whether requiring a Permit or not, must comply with the attendance
limitations at the particular location, in accordance with Table 12.20.040 -1.
F. Special Event Permits shall be subject to the permitting provisions of Section
12.20.060 and 12.20.070. Free Speech Special Events shall be subject to the
alternative permitting provisions of Section 12.20.080.
B-15
Table 12.20.040-1
Location Special Event (12.20.040;
12.20.060; 12.20.070)
Free Speech Special Event
(12.20.040; 12.20.080)
Maximum
Attendance (all
events)
Public
right-of-
way
Permit required when
-- 100 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 500 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
N/A
Civic
Center
(Upper
Point
Vicente
Park/ City
Hall)
Permit required when
-- 30 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 300 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
1000 for Free
Speech Events
500 for all other
Special Events
Hesse Park Permit required when
-- 30 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 300 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
500
Lower
Point
Vicente
Park
(Vicente
Park
Interpretive
Center)
Permit required when
-- 30 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 300 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
1000 for Free
Speech Events
500 for all other
Special Events
Robert
Ryan Park
Permit required when
-- 20 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 50 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200
Ladera
Linda Park
Permit required when
-- 20 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
Permit required when
-- 50 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
200
B-16
Location Special Event (12.20.040;
12.20.060; 12.20.070)
Free Speech Special Event
(12.20.040; 12.20.080)
Maximum
Attendance (all
events)
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Eastview
Park
Permit required when
-- 20 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 50 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200
Palos
Verdes
Nature
Preserve
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 20 or more people
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
40 for Free
Speech Events
20 for all other
events/groups
Del Cerro
Park
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if :
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
Frank S.
Vanderlip
Park
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups.
Abalone
Cove
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
B-17
Location Special Event (12.20.040;
12.20.060; 12.20.070)
Free Speech Special Event
(12.20.040; 12.20.080)
Maximum
Attendance (all
events)
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
events/groups
Marilyn
Ryan
Sunset
Park
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
Founders
Park
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
Grandview
Park
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
Pelican
Cove Park
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
B-18
12.20.050 Exemptions and waivers.
A. Special Events with an anticipated participation below the thresholds indicated in
Table 12.20.040-1 shall not require a Special Event Permit.
B. City-partnered events do not require Special Event Permits.
C. Permits for mission-aligned events, as well as for nonprofit and educational
events, may be subject to reduced or waived fees, as determined by City Council
resolution.
12.20.060 Special Event Permit application.
A. Special Event Permit Application Required. An application must be submitted to the
City by the Special Event Sponsor along with an application fee and an
administrative review fee (if applicable) in the amounts establis hed by City
Council resolution.
An Indigent Person who is unable to pay the application fee due to such
indigence may not be required to pay the fee in accordance with administrative
regulations or guidelines adopted pursuant to this chapter. Application for
indigent status shall be made at the time of submission of the permit application
and shall be accompanied by such relevant information and documentation as
may, in the opinion of the Task Force Chairperson, be reasonably necessary to
verify such status.
B. Application Form and Contents. An application for a Special Event Permit shall
be on a City form and signed by the Applicant who is at least 18 years of age, and
contain all of the following information:
1. The name, address, email address, and daytime telephone number of each
of the following:
a. The Applicant and the Sponsor, if different from the Applicant (also
include evening telephone number),
b. An alternate person to contact if an emergency arises and the
Applicant is unavailable (also include evening telephone number),
c. If applicable: the president, chair or other head of the sponsor
organization; nonprofit documentation (also include written
documentation of the authority under which the Applicant is applying
on behalf of the organization), and
d. The person who will be present and in charge of the event on the day
of the event and their contact information during the event.
B-19
2. The requested event date, including the dates and times for set-up and
clean-up, and the starting and finishing time of the event. Also include two
alternative dates.
3. The estimated number of participants.
4. A site plan identifying the proposed event and staging locations, including
specific street closures or street routes, if any, or park area requested and
parking areas.
5. A site map showing emergency exit routes.
6. Any City equipment or personnel requested.
7. A description of the planned event.
8. A description of how the event will be promoted and any prior history of
promotions for similar events, including references.
9. The proposed distribution or sale of any food or beverage, including
alcoholic beverages. If alcoholic beverages are included, provide all
applicable licenses and registrations allowing the sale of alcoholic beverages
at the event.
10. The type and estimated number of vehicles, animals, or structures that will
be used.
11. A description and location of any sound amplification equipment proposed to
be used.
12. The location of electrical generators, stages, tents, canopies, cooking
apparatus and lights.
13. The location of mechanical rides, jump houses, or other amusement
attractions.
14. The location of any water, first aid, or comfort station(s) to be provided.
15. For each application for a parade: (i) the time when the units of the parade
will begin to assemble, (ii) the proposed assembly point for the parade, (iii)
the proposed parade route, (iv) the interval space to be maintained between
units of the parade, and (v) the number, type and size of floats or other
vehicles.
B-20
16. For a commercial or Mixed Free Speech event, a layout showing the
locations of booths, stages, audience, tables and chairs, food court, portable
bathrooms, emergency exits.
17. A preliminary security plan and any monitors to be employed during the
event.
18. Any other information which the Task Force reasonably requires to evaluate
the particular Special Event Permit application. In addition, the Task Force
can waive application requirements that the Task Force determines are
inapplicable.
19. A parking and transportation plan as deemed necessary by the Task Force,
based on the anticipated number of participants and the availability of
parking at the proposed location.
20. For Recurring Events, the Applicant shall also include the following
information:
i. The frequency of the proposed recurring event, including if
available a schedule with proposed dates and times. Proposed
schedules may be submitted as soon as available, but no later than
15 days prior to the start of the events.
ii. The minimum and maximum number of participants for each event.
12.20.070 Processing of Special Event Permit applications.
Special Event Permits will be processed based on the following:
A. Submission timelines.
1. Special Events. An application for a Special Event Permit shall be filed at
least 30 days prior to the date of a proposed Small Special Event, and at
least 90 days prior to the date of a proposed Large Special Event.
2. Hikes and nature walks. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in
Subsection A, above, Special Event Permit applications for hikes and
nature walks in the Preserve or any of the City’s trails may be submitted
15 days prior to the proposed event.
3. Recurring Special Event Permits. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary
in Subsection A, above, a Special Event Permit application for recurring
events must be submitted no later than 90 days prior to the start of the
Recurring Special Events. These permits shall only authorize the same
B-21
type of recurring event during the year, and is not intended to be a blanket
event permit for the Applicant or Sponsor.
4. Requested dates and times at specific locations shall be reserved on a
first come first served basis. If the date or time requested is not available,
the Chairperson shall inform the applicant within 5 business days and
shall suggest alternative dates and times. Applications for events
occurring more than 12 months from the date of the application shall not
be accepted.
B. The Task Force or Chairperson shall meet with the Applicant or Sponsor to review
the application to determine whether additional information is required and discuss
applicable conditions and potential security fees.
C. The Task Force shall make a decision on the application, set any conditions and
fees, and issue the permit. For Large Special Events, a decision on the Special
Event Permit shall be made by the Task Force no later than 10 calendar days
following the submission of a completed application.. For Small Special Events, a
decision on the Special Event Permit shall be made by the Task Force no later than
30 days following submission of a completed application.
D. In deciding whether to approve, or approve with conditions, the Task Force shall
make each of the following findings:
1. The Special Event, as proposed, does not pose a threat to health and
safety.
2. The use of sheriff and/or fire resources to support the event will not deny
reasonable sheriff and fire protection to the City.
3. The Special Event will not adversely interfere with previously City-approved
and/or scheduled construction, maintenance or other activities.
4. The Special Event will not adversely impact the health or safety of
surrounding properties; or the impacts can be significantly mitigated by way
of reasonable permit conditions. Adverse impacts include, but are not limited
to, noise, traffic, parking, trash, and damage to public property,
infrastructure, or facilities.
5. There will be negligible adverse impact on the condition of parks and open
space areas; proposed mitigation by the event Sponsor will be considered.
6. The Special Event shall not adversely impede the public’s reasonable use of
City streets, sidewalks, walkways, trails, and City parks.
B-22
7. The Special Event is in compliance with the attendance and other event
limitations as indicated in Table 12.20.040-1.
E. Conditions.
1. The Task Force may include in a Special Event Permit reasonable terms or
conditions as to the time, place, and manner of the event, notice
requirements, compliance with health and sanitary regulations, emergency
services, security payment of the Special Event Permit fee, reimbursement
of direct expenses incurred by the City, and a clean-up/damage deposit.
2. Additional permits or security fees may be required by other state or federal
agencies or federal, state, or local laws.
3. In order to accommodate other concurrent events, the rights of abutting
owners and the needs of the public to use streets or parks, the conditions
may include, but not be limited to, reasonable adjustments in the date, time,
route or location of the proposed event; accommodations of pedestrian or
vehicular traffic using the street; accommodations of public access to City
parks, the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve, and the City’s trails; and
limitations on the duration of the event.
4. A notice issued by the City for a Special Event Permit shall be mailed to
property owners located within a 500 foot radius of a fixed event site, a
parade route, or a run/race route describing the event and inviting the public
to comment. The Applicant shall cover the cost, including postage, for the
notice. The notice shall be mailed by first class mail at least 10 calendar
days before the date of a Small Event, and at least 20 calendar days before
the date of a Large Event.
5. Conditions relating to the use of amplified sound to minimize the interference
with the quiet enjoyment of neighboring properties.
6. Conditions relating to maintaining the public property in the same or better
condition after the Special Event. Conditions may address collection of trash,
access to rest facilities, prohibiting access to protected habitat, etc.
7. The Task Force may require a Special Event Permit Sponsor to reimburse
the City for the cost of repairs or habitat remediation needed because of the
Special Event.
F. Recurring Events. The Special Events Task Force may require a trial period before
approving all planned events. In no case shall recurring events be authorized for
more than one year at the time of application.
B-23
G. An application for a Special Event Permit can be denied on any of the following
grounds:
1. Applicant’s provision of false or misleading information;
2. Conflict with other planned events in the area;
3. Previous Special Event Permit violations by the Applicant or sponsor;
4. Inability to make all the findings for approval set forth above;
5. Exceeding special event attendance limits for a particular location; or
6. The location or park site requested is not eligible for special events.
H. CEQA Review. The Task Force will designate a staff person knowledgeable in the
California Environmental Quality Act to perform an environmental review of the
proposed special event.
12.20.080 Free Speech Special Event Permit application.
A. The following application procedures apply to a Free Speech Special Event only.
Parades and Mixed Free Speech Events shall be subject to the Special Event
Permit provisions of Section 12.20.040 through 12.20.070.
B. A Free Speech Special Event requires a Free Speech Special Event Permit when:
1. The proposed event may impede, obstruct, impair or interfere with the free
use of any public street, highway, alley, sidewalk, or other public right-of-
way, or with ingress or egress to the same; or
2. The proposed event may exceed the maximum attendance without permit
for the location of the event provided for in Table 12.20.040-1.
3. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this chapter, a Free Speech
Special Event Permit is not required for Spontaneous Events. The Sponsor
of a spontaneous event shall provide the Task Force with advance
notification to the extent practicable, as well as the following information: the
type of event; the date, time, and duration of the proposed event; the
location of the event and/or route, including which public spaces or public
right-of-ways may be obstructed or closed; and anticipated participation.
Spontaneous Events at particular locations may not be held that exceed the
maximum occupancy for that location, as provided for in Table 12.20.040-1.
C. A Free Speech Special Event application shall include the following information:
B-24
1. A description of the proposed event;
2. The street or other public property and the specific area or areas thereof to
be utilized in connection with the proposed event;
3. The manner in which the public property will be utilized;
4. The date or dates and the specific times of the proposed event, including
set-up and tear-down;
5. The name, address and telephone number of the sponsor of the proposed
event;
6. The name, address and telephone number of the person or persons to be
contacted regarding the application or the permit.
7. Anticipated participation, including any animals that may be in attendance.
D. Timing of application. The Applicant shall file a complete application for a Free
Speech Special Event Permit with the Task Force Chairperson as soon as
possible, but no later than 5 business days before the proposed event. The Task
Force shall review the Free Speech Special Event Permit application to establish
reasonable conditions to address health and safety only, notification of the decision,
and appeal from the decision.
E. Task Force’s Decision. The Task Force shall render a decision in accordance with
the findings set forth herein within two business days following the filing of the
completed application.
1. The event, as proposed, will not pose a threat to health and safety;
2. The use of sheriff and/or fire resources to support the event will not deny
reasonable sheriff and fire protection to the City;
3. The event will not interfere with previously City-approved and/or scheduled
construction or maintenance, or with a previously permitted special event;
4. No consideration was given to the message of the event, the content of
speech, the identity or associational relationships of the Applicant, or to any
assumptions or predictions as to the amount of hostility which may be
aroused in the public by the content of the speech or message conveyed by
the event.
5. The event is in compliance with the attendance and other limitations as
provided in Table 12.20.040-1.
B-25
6. There will be minimal or no adverse impact on the condition of parks and
open space areas, proposed measures to mitigate any adverse impacts
shall be taken into consideration.
F. Notification of Decision. The Task Force Chairperson shall notify the Applicant in
writing (and orally, if possible) of the decision, including a statement of the reasons
for any conditions or the grounds for a denial. If a change in the time or location of
the proposed event would allow approval of the application, the Chairperson shall
propose an alternative to the Applicant. Any conditions shall be directed
G.. Applicant’s Acceptance. The Applicant shall notify the Chairperson in writing of their
acceptance forthwith after written notice of the decision. Once the Applicant
submits a written acceptance of the Task Force’s decision, the Free Speech
Special Event Permit shall be approved and the Chairperson shall notify the City
Council and the City Manager that the permit has been issued.
H. Free Speech Special Events will not be required to comply with any of the
following as a condition of receiving a permit:
1. Any fee or charge required by the City.
2. Any insurance or proof of insurance covering the Free Speech Event, its
organizers, or participants, including the requirements of Section 12.20.150.
3. Any requirement of indemnification or agreement to hold harmless, including
the requirements of Section 12.20.140.
I. Appeal. Any decision relating to the issuance of a Free Speech Special Events
Permit may be appealed to the City Manager. The appeal must be in writing and
must be submitted to the City Manager’s Office within two business days of the
Task Force’s decision. The City Manager shall decide the appeal within one
business day. The City Manager’s decision shall be final.
J. Judicial Review. Decisions regarding a Free Speech Special Event Permit are
eligible for expedited judicial review pursuant to Section 1094.8 of the Code of Civil
Procedure.
12.20.090 Special Event Task Force.
A. A Special Event Task Force is hereby created to carry out the provisions of this
code relating to permits for Special Events, Free Speech Special Events, and
Mixed Free Speech Special Events (collectively, Special Events), is comprised of
representatives of City departments, including, but not limited to, the following
departments: Public Works, Community Development, and Parks and Recreation.
The Task Force may also invite representatives from other City departments, public
agencies, or community or neighborhood organizations to provide comments on
B-26
proposed special events. Examples of such agencies/organizations include, but are
not limited to the Los Angeles County Sheriff and the Los Angeles County Fire. The
Chairperson of the Task Force shall be a Department Director or the Deputy City
Manager, as designated by the City Manager. The Chairperson shall provide for
maintaining Task Force records, arranging meeting times and places, and issuing a
Special Event Permit on behalf of the Task Force.
B. The Special Event Task Force shall have the power to:
1. Interpret and administer this code;
2. Represent the City, in accordance with procedures adopted by the City
Manager, in discussions and in maintaining agreements with Applicant or
Sponsor;
3. Coordinate with City departments and with other government agencies for
the provision of governmental services for such Special Events;
4. Establish terms and conditions, appropriate security fees and deposits, and
the time(s), place and manner of the Special Event;
5. Approve or deny Special Event Permits;
6. Adopt policies for administering this code as necessary.
12.20.100 Special Event Permit fees and charges.
A. Special Event Permit fees and charges are established by resolution of the City
Council. The application fee must be submitted with the application. Other costs for
City services shall be invoiced to the Applicant no later than 10 calendar days after
the expiration date of the permit. The Applicant shall pay all fees and charges within
30 calendar days of invoice otherwise late fees shall apply.
B. In addition to the payment of any applicable non-refundable permit application fees,
all Applicants or sponsors shall be responsible for paying for all City departmental,
Los Angeles County Sheriff, or Los Angeles County Fire service charges incurred in
connection with or due to the permittee’s activities under the permit.
12.20.110 Revocation.
A Special Event Permit can be revoked by the Task Force for any of the following reasons:
A. Failure to comply with any permitting requirements or conditions of approval;
B. Knowingly providing false, misleading, or fraudulent information;
B-27
C. Failing to pay required fees, charges, or deposits;
D. Failing to agree to the indemnification provisions or failing to provide proof of
insurance to the extent required; or
E. The event materially changes after a permit has been approved.
12.20.120 Enforcement.
A. Violations of this chapter shall be charged to the Applicant and/or Sponsor of the
event pursuant to Chapters 1.08 and 1.16 of this Code, as well as any other
remedies available to the City at law or equity.
B. In addition to the penalties provided for in Chapters 1.08 and 1.16 of this Code,
Sponsors, Applicants, or Participants of an event may be cited and/or ejected from
the public property for violations of this Chapter after notice and an opportunity to
cure the violation.
12.20.130 Appeal.
A. A decision regarding a Special Event Permit application may be appealed in
writing to the City Manager within 10 calendar days of the Task Force’s decision
for Large Special Events and within 5 calendar days of the Task Force’s decision
for Small Special Events.
B. The City Manager shall make a decision on the appeal within 10 calendar days of
receipt of the appeal for Large Special Events and within 5 calendar days of
receipt of the appeal for Small Special Events.
C. The decision of the City Manager shall be final, and is subject to judicial review
pursuant to Section 1094.5 and 1094.6 of the Code of Civil Procedure .
12.20.140 Hold harmless.
As a condition to the issuance of any permit under this chapter, the Applicant/Sponsor
shall agree to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City, its elected and appointed
officials, employees and agents, against losses and liabilities incurred from the conduct
of the permittee, or its officers, employees, and agents, or claims or liabilities caused by,
or arising out of any activities authorized by any such permit.
12.20.150 Insurance requirements for special events.
The Applicant shall provide general liability insurance naming the City, its elected and
appointed officials, employees, and agents, as an additional ins ured. Limits of coverage
will be determined by the City Attorney’s office at the time of application. Certificates of
insurance are to be submitted to the City for approval 14 calendar days prior to the day
B-28
of the event. Acceptability of insurance is subject to approval by the City’s Risk
Manager. This requirement does not apply to Free Speech Events.
SECTION 3. SEVERABILITY. If any section, subsection, subdivision, sentence,
clause, phrase, or portion of this Ordinance or the application thereof to any person or
place, is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court
of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remainder of
this Ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this
Ordinance, and each and every section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause,
phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections,
subsections, subdivisions, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions thereof be declared
invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 4. EFFECTIVE DATE. This ordinance shall be effective on the thirtieth
(30th) day after the day of its adoption.
SECTION 5. CERTIFICATION. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this
Ordinance and shall cause the same to be posted in the manner required by law.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED this ___ day of ________________ 2019.
Jerry V. Duhovic, Mayor
ATTEST:
Emily Colborn, City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES )
B-29
I, Emily Colborn, City Clerk of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, do hereby certify that
the whole number of members of the City Council of said City is five; that the foregoing
Ordinance No. , was duly and regularly adopted by the City Council of said
City at a regular meeting thereof held on and that the same was passed and adopted by
the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
______________________________
City Clerk
B-30
ORDINANCE NO. 581
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA,
ADDING A NEW CHAPTER ENTITLED “SPECIAL EVENT PERMITS” TO TITLE
12 OF THE RANCHO PALOS VERDES MUNICIPAL CODE.
WHEREAS, the City recognizes the substantial community benefit that may
result from community events, which can provide cultural enrichment and economic
vitality and can enhance community identity; and
WHEREAS, the purpose of this ordinance is to provide a coordinated process for
managing community events to ensure the public health, safety and welfare of event
patrons, residents and other visitors, and to provide for fees, charges and procedures
required to administer the permit process;
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS
VERDES DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The facts set forth in the Recitals of this Ordinance, are true and
correct.
SECTION 2. Chapter 12.20, “Special Event Permits” is added to Title 12, “Streets,
Sidewalks and Public Places,” of the Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code to read:
Chapter 12.20
SPECIAL EVENT PERMITS
Sections:
12.20.010 Title.
12.20.020 Purpose.
12.20.030 Definitions.
12.20.040 Special Event Permit Required.
12.20.050 Special Event Task Force– Membership.
12.20.060 Powers of the Special Event Task Force.
12.20.070 Application.
12.20.080 Processing of Special Event Permits.
12.20.090 Special Event Permit Fees and Charges.
12.20.100 Revocation.
12.20.110 Appeal.
12.20.120 Hold Harmless.
12.20.130 Insurance Requirements for Special Events.
12.20.140 Adoption of Procedures.
12.20.010 TITLE. This chapter shall be known as the Special Event Permits
Ordinance.
B-31
12.20.020 PURPOSE. It is the purpose of this chapter to provide for the issuance of
Special Event Permits to regulate events on the public streets and public property of the
city; and to provide for fees, charges and procedures required to administer the permit
process.
12.20.030 DEFINITIONS. The following words and phrases when used in this chapter
shall mean:
“Amplified sound” means music or speech projected or transmitted by electronic
equipment, including, but not limited to, an amplifier, loudspeakers, or similar devices.
“Annual event” means an event recurring each year at approximately the same date which
has previously complied with the permit requirements of this code.
“Applicant” means the authorized agent of the sponsor who completes the application
and acts as primary contact for the special event.
“Chairperson” means the chairperson of the Special Event Task Force as designated by
the City Manager.
“Task Force” means the Special Event Task Force as constituted by this code.
“Event participants” means persons in attendance at an event, including spectators,
vendors, event staff, City staff, and all others present for the purpose of the event.
“Fair/carnival” means a stationary event, held for one or more days.
“Free speech special event” means an event at which the expression of free speech righ ts
is the principal purpose of the event. “Free speech rights” means expressive activity
protected by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution or Article 1, Section
2 of the California Constitution.
“Indigent person” means: (1) a person who is receiving benefits pursuant to the
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and State Supplemental Payments (SSP) programs
(Sections 12200 to 12205, inclusive, of the California Welfare and Institutions Code), the
California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids Act (CalWORKs) program
(Chapter 2, commencing with Section 11200 of Part 3 of Division 9 of the California
Welfare and Institutions Code), the Food Stamp program (7 U.S.C. Section 2011 et seq.)
or Section 17000 of the Welfare and Institutions Code ; (2) a person whose monthly
income is 125% or less of the current monthly poverty line annually established by the
Secretary of Health and Human Services pursuant to the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation
Act of 1981, as amended.
“Parade” means any organized group of 20 people or more marching or in procession,
whether on foot, animal, or vehicle, on public property.
B-32
“Procedure” means a procedure adopted by the Special Event Task Force, to implement
this code, or to carry out other responsibilities as may be required by this code or by other
codes, ordinances, or resolutions of the City or other agencies.
“Race/run” Means an organized event upon a public street, sidewalk, walkways, or other
publicly owned property including City parks (races/runs shall be pro hibited on all City
trails identified in the Trails Network Plan) in which 10 or more persons participate by
walking, running, riding a bicycle, or operating a wheelchair.
“Recurring event” means an event that will occur repeatedly within a one -year period.
“Special event” means an event, including, but not limited to, parades and races/runs held
on public streets, sidewalks, walkways, or other publicly owned property including City
parks, which is not subject to any other City permitting requirement.
“Sponsor” means the person or group responsible for the special event to be held.
“Spontaneous event” means an event occasioned by news or affairs coming into public
knowledge less than 48 hours prior to such event.
“Transportation management/parking plan” means a plan developed by the
applicant/sponsor to identify and mitigate traffic/parking impacts associated with a special
event.
12.20.040 SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT REQUIRED. A Special Event Permit must be
obtained from the City to stage a special event.
12.20.050 SPECIAL EVENT TASK FORCE- MEMBERSHIP. A Special Event
Task Force is hereby created to carry out the provisions of this code and is comprised of
representatives of City departments, including, but not limited to, the following departments:
Public Works, Community Development, and Parks and Recreation. The Task Force may
also invite representatives from other City departments, public agencies or community or
neighborhood organizations to provide comments on proposed special events. Examples of
such agencies/organizations include, but are not limited to the Los Angeles County Sheriff
and the Los Angeles County Fire. The chairperson of the Task Force shall be a Department
Director designated by the City Manager. The chairperson shall provide for maintaining Task
Force records, arranging meeting times and places and issuing a Special Event Permit on
behalf of the Task Force.
12.20.060 POWERS OF THE SPECIAL EVENT TASK FORCE. The Special Event
Task Force shall have the power to:
(a) Interpret and administer this code;
(b) Represent the City, in accordance with procedures adopted by the City Manager,
in discussions and in maintaining agreements with the person(s) who represents the event;
B-33
(c) Coordinate with City departments and with other government agencies for the
provision of governmental services for such special events;
(d) Establish terms and conditions, appropriate security fees and deposits, and the
time(s), place and manner of the event;
(e) Approve or deny Special Event Permits;
(f) Adopt policies for administering this code as necessary.
12.20.070 APPLICATION
(a) Special Event Permit Application Required. An application must be
submitted to the City by the special event applicant or sponsor along with an application
fee and an administrative review fee (if applicable) in the amounts established by City
Council resolution. Payment of the application fee is not required for free speech events.
An indigent person who cannot apply for a permit because of an inability to pay the
application fee due to such indigence may not be required to pay the fee in accordance
with administrative regulations or guidelines adopted pursuant to this chapter. Application
for indigent status shall be made at the time of submission of permit application and shall
be accompanied by such relevant information and documentation as may, in the opinion of
the City Manager, or designee, be reasonably necessary to verify such status.
(b) Application Form and Contents. An application for a Special Event Permit
shall be on a City form and signed by the applicant who is at least 18 years of age, and
contains all of the following information:
(1) The name, address, email address and daytime telephone number of
each of the following:
(i) The person filing the application (also include evening
telephone number),
(ii) An alternate person to contact if an emergency arises and the
applicant is unavailable (also include evening telephone number),
(iii) The organization sponsoring the event, if any; the president,
chair or other head of the organization; nonprofit documentation, if applicable (also include
written documentation of the authority under which the applicant is applying on behalf of
the organization), and
(iv) The person who will be present and in charge of the event on
the day of the event and their contact information during the event;
B-34
(2) A site plan identifying the proposed event and staging locations, including
specific street closures or street routes, if any, or park area requested and parking areas
(first time events must list several options for location, route, date, and time);
(3) A site map showing emergency exit routes;
(4) Any city equipment or personnel requested or required;
(5) A description of the planned event;
(6) A description of how the event will be promoted and any prior history of
promotions for similar events, including references;
(7) The proposed distribution or sale of any food or beverage, including
alcoholic beverages;
(8) The proposed event date including the dates and times for set-up and clean-
up, and the starting and finishing time of the event;
(9) The estimated number of participants;
(10) The type and estimated number of vehicles, animals or structures that will be
used;
(11) A description and location of any sound amplification equipment proposed to
be used;
(12) The location of electrical generators, stages, tents, canopies, cooking
apparatus and lights;
(13) The location of mechanical rides, jump houses or other amusement
attractions;
(14) Parking locations;
(15) The location of any water, first aid, or comfort station(s) to be provided;
(16) For each application for a parade: (i) the time when the units of the parade
will begin to assemble, (ii) the proposed assembly point for the parade, (iii) the proposed
parade route, (iv) the interval space to be maintained between units of the parade, and (v)
the number, type and size of floats or other vehicles;
(17) A preliminary security plan and any monitors to be employed during the
event; and
B-35
(18) Any other information which the Task Force reasonably requires to evaluate
the particular special event application. In addition, the Task Force can waive application
requirements that the Task Force determines are inapplicable.
12.20.080 PROCESSING OF SPECIAL EVENT PERMITS.
(a) Non-Free Speech Special Events.
(1) An application for a Special Event Permit shall be filed at least 90
days prior to the date of the proposed event.
(2) The Task Force or chairperson shall meet with the applicant or
sponsor to review the application to determine whether additional information is required
and discuss applicable conditions and potential security fees.
(3) A notice issued by the City for a Special Event Permit shall be mailed
to property owners located within a 500 foot radius of a fixed event site or to a parade, or
run/race route describing the event and inviting public to comment. The applicant shall
cover the cost, including postage, for the notice. The notice shall be mailed by first class
mail at least 30 calendar days before the date of the proposed event. A decision of the
Special Event Permit shall be made by the City no later than 10 calendar days before the
date of the proposed event.
(4) The Task Force shall make a decision on the application, set any
conditions and fees, and issue the permit.
(5) In deciding whether to approve, or approve with conditions, the Task
Force shall make each of the following findings:
(i) The event, as proposed, can be shown to function safely;
(ii) The use of sheriff and/or fire resources to support the event
will not deny reasonable sheriff and fire protection to the City;
(iii) The special event will not adversely interfere with previously
City-approved and/or scheduled construction, maintenance or other activities;
(iv) The proposed event will not adversely impact the health or
safety of surrounding properties which cannot be effectively mitigated;
(v) The special event shall not adversely impede the public’s
reasonable use of City streets, sidewalks, walkways, trails, and City parks and
(vi) The location/route meets the criteria established in the
procedures.
B-36
(vii) In deciding whether to approve an application, no
consideration may be given to the message of the event, the content of speech, the
identity or associational relationships of the applicant, or to any assumptions or predictions
as to the amount of hostility which may be aroused in the public by the content of speech
or message conveyed by the event.
(6) Conditions.
(i) The Task Force may include in a Special Event Permit, among
other provisions, reasonable terms or conditions as to the time, place and manner of the
event, notice requirements, compliance with health and sanitary regulations, emergency
services, security payment of Special Event Permit fee, reimbursement of direct expenses
incurred by the City, and a clean-up/damage deposit.
(ii) Additional permits or security fees may be required by other
agencies, such as Los Angeles County Fire, Los Angeles County Sheriff or the California
Coastal Commission, to meet the conditions established by the permit, and/or other
Federal, State, County or City codes.
(iii) In order to accommodate other concurrent events, the rights of
abutting owners and the needs of the public to use streets or parks, the conditions may
include, but not be limited to, reasonable adjustments in the date, time, route or location of
the proposed event; accommodations of pedestrian or vehicular traffic using the street;
accommodations of public access to City parks, preserve, and trails; and limitations on the
duration of the event.
(7) Recurring Events. The Special Event Task Force may require a trial
period before approving all planned events. In no case shall recurrent events be
authorized for more than one year.
(8) An application for a Special Event Permit can be denied on any of the
following grounds:
(i) Applicant’s provision of false or misleading information;
(ii) Conflict with other planned events in the area;
(iii) Previous permit violations by the applicant or organization; or
(iv) Inability to make each of the findings for approval set forth
above.
(9) CEQA Review. The Task Force will designate a staff person
knowledgeable in CEQA to perform an environmental review of the proposed special
event.
B-37
(b) Free Speech Special Events. The following procedures apply to a free
speech special event:
(1) It is the intent of the Council to protect the rights of its citizens to
engage in protected free speech expression activities. Consequently, it is not the intent of
this ordinance to regulate conduct, the sole or principal object of which is the expression,
dissemination or communication by verbal, visual, literary or auditory means of opinion,
views or ideas which are protected by the First Amendment of the United States
Constitution or Article 1, Section 2 of the California Constitution.
(2) Filing. The applicant shall file a complete application for a Free
Speech Special Event with the Chairperson as soon as possible, but no later than seven
working days before the event. An application may be filed up to five calendar days before
the event, but an applicant filing fewer than seven calendar days before the event waives
the right to appeal a decision. The review period is to ensure adequate time for review of
the proposed arrangements by the affected City departments, establishing reasonable
conditions, notification or the decision, and appeal from the decision. If a spontaneous
event is planned, the applicant may file an application 48 hours before the event. The
Special Event Task Force shall review the Free Speech Special Event application to
establish reasonable conditions, notification of the decision, and appeal from the decision.
(3) Task Force’s Decision. The Task Force shall render a decision in
accordance with the findings set forth in subsection (a) within 48 hours (not including days
the City offices are closed) after receipt of a complete application. The Task Force
Chairperson shall notify the applicant in writing (and orally, if possible) of the decision,
including a statement of the reasons for any conditions or the grounds for a denial. If a
change in the time or location of the proposed event would allow approval of the
application, the Chairperson shall propose an alternative to the applicant.
(4) Applicant’s Acceptance. The applicant shall notify the Task Force
Chairperson in writing of the applicant’s acceptance within 24 hours (not including days the
City offices are closed) after written notice of the decision. The failure to submit a timely
written acceptance or appeal is deemed an automatic withdrawal of the application. If the
applicant files a valid written acceptance of the Task Force’s decision, the Free Speech
Special Event Permit shall be approved and the Task Force Chairperson shall notify the
City Council and the City Manager that the permit has been issued.
(5) Appeal. An applicant who has filed a Free Speech Special Event
Permit application at least seven calendar days before the event may appeal the decision,
including a denial, a condition of approval, a refusal to waive a filing deadline, or a decision
regarding fees or insurance, by filing a written appeal. The appeal procedures are set forth
in Section 12.20.110 of this chapter.
(6) Judicial Review. Applications for a Free Speech Special Event Permit
are eligible for expedited judicial review pursuant to the Code of Civil Procedure, section
1094.8.
B-38
12.20.090 SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT FEES AND CHARGES.
(a) Special Event Permit fees and charges are established by resolution of the
City Council, if required. The application fee must be submitted when the applicant or
sponsor files the application. Other costs for City services shall be invoiced to the applicant
no later than 10 calendar days after the expiration date of the permit. The applicant shall
pay said fees within 30 calendar days of invoice otherwise late fees shall apply.
(b) In addition to the payment of any applicable nonrefundable permit
application fees, all applicants or sponsors shall be responsible for paying for all City
departmental, Los Angeles County Sheriff, or Los Angeles County Fire service charges
incurred in connection with or due to the permittee’s activities under the permit.
12.20.100 REVOCATION. A Special Event Permit can be revoked by the Chairperson
for any of the following reasons:
(a) Failure to comply with any permitting requirements or conditions of approval;
(b) Knowingly providing false, misleading or fraudulent information;
(c) Failing to pay required fees, charges or deposits;
(d) Failing to agree to the indemnification agreement or for failing to provide
proof of insurance to the extent required; or
(e) New information after a permit has been approved materially changes the
event.
12.20.110 APPEAL. A decision of a Special Event Permit, including a Free Speech
Special Event Permit, application is appealable to the City Manager by filing a written
appeal to the City Manager within 5 calendar days of the decision. The City Manager or
designee shall hold a hearing within 5 calendar days of receipt of the appeal, except that
a hearing on an appeal of a Free Speech Event shall be held within 2 calendar days of
receipt of the appeal. The decision of the City Manager or designee is final.
12.20.120 HOLD HARMLESS. As a condition to the issuance of any permit under this
chapter, the applicant shall agree to defend, indemnify and hold harmless the City, its
elected and appointed officials, employees and agents, against losses and liabilities
incurred from the conduct of the permittee, or its officers, employees, and agents, or
claims or liabilities caused by, or arising out of any activities authorized by any such
permit.
12.20.130 INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS. The applicant
shall provide general liability insurance naming the City, its elected and appointed
officials, employees, and agents, as an additional insured. Limits of coverage will be
determined by the City Attorney’s office at the time of application. Certificates of insurance
B-39
are to be submitted to the City for approval 14 calendar days prior to the day of the event.
Acceptability of insurance is subject to approval by the City’s Risk Manager. This
requirement does not apply to free speech events.
12.20.140 ADOPTION OF PROCEDURES. The City Council may prepare and adopt
regulations for the purpose of implementing this code or to carry out other responsibilities
as may be required by this code or other codes, ordinances of the City or other agencies.
SECTION 3. Severability. If any section, subsection, subdivision, sentence,
clause, phrase, or portion of this Ordinance or the application thereof to any person or
place, is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any cou rt
of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remainder of this
Ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance,
and each and every section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion
thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, subdivisions,
sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions thereof be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 4. Effective Date. This ordinance shall be in effective on the thirtieth
(30th) day after the day of its adoption.
SECTION 5. Certification. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this
Ordinance and shall cause the same to be posted in the manner required by law.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 6th day of June 2016.
/s/ Ken Dyda
Mayor
ATTEST:
/s/ Carla Morreale
City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES )ss
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES )
I, Carla Morreale, City Clerk of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, do hereby certify that
the whole number of members of the City Council of said City is five; that the foregoing
Ordinance No. 581 passed first reading on May 17, 2016, was duly and regularly
adopted by the City Council of said City at a regular meeting thereof held on June 6,
2016, and that the same was passed and adopted by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Brooks, Campbell, Duhovic, Misetich, and Mayor Dyda
B-40
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
______________________________
City Clerk
B-41
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO
PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA, REPEALING AND REPLACING
CHAPTER 12.20 (SPECIAL EVENT PERMITS) OF TITLE 12 (STREETS,
SIDEWALKS AND PUBLIC PLACES) OF THE RANCHO PALOS
VERDES MUNICIPAL CODE.
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes recognizes the
substantial community benefit that may result from community events, which can
provide cultural enrichment and economic vitality and can enhance community identity;
and
WHEREAS, the City Council wishes to update the City’s coordinated processes
for managing community events to ensure the public health, safety, and welfare of event
patrons, residents and other visitors, and to provide for fees and procedures required to
administer the permit process.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS
VERDES DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The facts set forth in the Recitals of this Ordinance are true and
correct, and incorporated herein.
SECTION 2. Chapter 12.20 (Special Event Permits) of Title 12 (Streets, Sidewalks
and Public Places) is repealed and replaced with the following:
Chapter 12.20
SPECIAL EVENT PERMITS
Sections:
12.20.010 Title.
12.20.020 Purpose.
12.20.030 Definitions.
12.20.040 Special Event Permit required.
12.20.050 Exemptions and waivers.
12.20.060 Special Event Permit application.
12.20.070 Processing of Special Event Permit applications.
12.20.080 Free Speech Special Event Permit application.
12.20.090 Special Event Task Force.
12.20.100 Special Event Permit fees and charges.
12.20.110 Revocation.
12.20.120 Enforcement.
12.20.130 Appeal.
12.20.140 Hold Harmless.
12.20.150 Insurance Requirements for Special Events.
B-42
12.20.010 Title.
This chapter shall be known as the Special Event Permits Ordinance.
12.20.020 Purpose.
A. It is the purpose of this chapter to provide for the issuance of Special Event Permits
to regulate events on the public streets and public property of the City; and to
provide for fees, charges, and procedures required to administer the permit
process.
B. It is further the purpose of this chapter to provide for expedited procedures for Free
Speech Special Events, while also providing for the protection and preservation of
public spaces and public resources.
12.20.030 Definitions.
The following words and phrases when used in this chapter shall mean:
“Amplified sound” means music or speech projected or transmitted by electronic
equipment, including, but not limited to, an amplifier, loudspeakers, or similar devices.
“Annual event” means an event recurring each year at approximately the same date.
“Applicant” means the event sponsor or the sponsor’s authorized agent who completes
the permit application and acts as primary contact for a Special Event.
“City-partnered event” means an event organized and run by a non-profit organization in
conjunction with the City, where the City provides sponsorship or partnership and retains
control over how the event(s) is run and/or publicized. Examples include nature hikes in
the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve led by Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy
docents.
“City Manager” means the City Manager of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, and shall
include his/her designee.
“Covered Event” includes, but is not limited to, any of the following one-time or recurring
or annual events: a commercial event (e.g., a fair, carnival, farmers market), a spectator
sport (e.g., beach volleyball, hockey, basketball, surfing competition), an athletic event
(e.g., races, runs), a community event (e.g., beach/park clean up, sandcastle building, a
hike or nature walk); parades; and Mixed Free Speech Events. City-partnered events of
any nature shall not be included in this definition.
“Event participants” means persons in attendance at an event, including spectators,
vendors, event staff, City staff, and all others present for the purpose of the event. Any
B-43
persons in attendance at an event for the purpose of protesting the event shall not be
considered event participants.
“Fair/carnival” means a traveling enterprise offering amusements, or a gathering of buyers
and sellers, held at a temporary location for one or more days.
“Free speech” means speech and expressive conduct protected by the First Amendment
of the United States Constitution or by Article 1, Section 2 of the California Constitution.
“Free Speech Special Event” or “Mixed Free Speech Special Event” means an event at
which the expression of free speech rights is the principal purpose of the event , or where
free speech is entwined with commercial purposes . Examples of Free Speech Special
Events include a parade, protest, speech, or rally; individual street performers. A Mixed
Free Speech Special Event is one that has a commercial component, or that is open to
the public for entertainment or cultural purposes; mixed free speech events are not
dependent on current events and require time and logistical support to organize;
examples include a circus, outdoor theater, art fair, or other organized art or
entertainment.
“Indigent person” means: (1) a person who is receiving benefits pursuant to the
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and State Supplemental Payments (SSP) programs
(Sections 12200 to 12205, inclusive, of the California Welfare and Institutions Code), the
California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids Act (CalWORKs) program
(Chapter 2, commencing with Section 11200 of Part 3 of Division 9 of the California
Welfare and Institutions Code), the Food Stamp program (7 U.S.C. Section 2011 et seq.)
or Section 17000 of the Welfare and Instituti ons Code; (2) a person whose monthly
income is 125% or less of the current monthly poverty line annually established by the
Secretary of Health and Human Services pursuant to the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation
Act of 1981, as amended.
“Mission-aligned event” means an event (one-time, recurring, or annual) that takes place
in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve and/or within the City trails system, and that is
organized and run by a nonprofit entity whose mission is aligned with the City’s goals of
habitat and sensitive species preservation and protection of the City’s open spaces.
Examples include nature hikes by the Sierra Club and the Boy Scouts of America.
“Parade” means a public procession, typically celebrating a special day or event and
including marching bands and floats, in the public right-of-way.
“Race/run” means an organized competitive event upon a public street, sidewalk,
walkway, or other publicly owned property including City parks, in which persons
participate by walking, running, riding a bicycle or horse, or operating a wheelchair.
“Recurring event” means an event that will occur repeatedly within a one -year period.
B-44
“Special Event” shall mean any event that requires a Special Event Permit, as provided
for in Section 12.20.40. Small Special Events shall be events with an anticipated
attendance of 150 or fewer people. Large Special Events shall be events with an
anticipated attendance of more than 150 people.
“Sponsor” means the person or group responsible for or organizing the special event.
“Spontaneous event” means a Free Speech Event occasioned by news or events coming
into public knowledge 4 business days or fewer prior to such event.
“Task Force” means the Special Events Task Force as constituted by this code.
“Transportation management/parking plan” means a plan developed by the special event
sponsor to identify and mitigate traffic/parking impacts associated with a special event.
12.20.040 Special Event Permit required.
A Special Event Permit must be obtained from the City if the proposed event meets any
of the following criteria (also see Table 12.20.040-1):
A. A Covered Event with an anticipated participation requiring a permit for the location
of the event provided for in Table 12.20.040-1, below.
B. Any event, including a Free Speech Special Event, which may impede, obstruct,
impair or interfere with the free use of any public street, highway, alley, sidewalk,
or other public way, or with an anticipated participation requiring a permit for the
location of the event provided for in Table 12.20.040-1, below.
C. Any event, including a Free Speech Special Event, which involves any activity or
event on public property that requires the placement of a tent, canopy, or other
temporary structure if that placement requires a permit from the City’s Fire
Department or Building and Safety Division.
D. Any event, including a Free Speech Special Event, which will use amplified sound.
E. All events, whether requiring a Permit or not, must comply with the attendance
limitations at the particular location, in accordance with Table 12.20.040 -1.
F. Special Event Permits shall be subject to the permitting provisions of Section
12.20.060 and 12.20.070. Free Speech Special Events shall be subject to the
alternative permitting provisions of Section 12.20.080.
B-45
Table 12.20.040-1
Location Special Event (12.20.040;
12.20.060; 12.20.070)
Free Speech Special Event
(12.20.040; 12.20.080)
Maximum
Attendance (all
events)
Public
right-of-
way
Permit required when
-- 100 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 500 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
N/A
Civic
Center
(Upper
Point
Vicente
Park/ City
Hall)
Permit required when
-- 30 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 300 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
1000 for Free
Speech Events
500 for all other
Special Events
Hesse Park Permit required when
-- 30 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 300 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
500
Lower
Point
Vicente
Park
(Vicente
Park
Interpretive
Center)
Permit required when
-- 30 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 300 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
1000 for Free
Speech Events
500 for all other
Special Events
Robert
Ryan Park
Permit required when
-- 20 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 50 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200
Ladera
Linda Park
Permit required when
-- 20 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
Permit required when
-- 50 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
200
B-46
Location Special Event (12.20.040;
12.20.060; 12.20.070)
Free Speech Special Event
(12.20.040; 12.20.080)
Maximum
Attendance (all
events)
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Eastview
Park
Permit required when
-- 20 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 50 people; or
-- am plified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200
Palos
Verdes
Nature
Preserve
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 20 or more people
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
40 for Free
Speech Events
20 for all other
events/groups
Del Cerro
Park
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if :
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
Frank S.
Vanderlip
Park
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups.
Abalone
Cove
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
B-47
Location Special Event (12.20.040;
12.20.060; 12.20.070)
Free Speech Special Event
(12.20.040; 12.20.080)
Maximum
Attendance (all
events)
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
20 for all other
events/groups
Marilyn
Ryan
Sunset
Park
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
Founders
Park
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
Grandview
Park
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
Pelican
Cove Park
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
B-48
12.20.050 Exemptions and waivers.
A. Special Events with an anticipated participation below the thresholds indicated in
Table 12.20.040-1 shall not require a Special Event Permit.
B. City-partnered events do not require Special Event Permits.
C. Permits for mission-aligned events, as well as for nonprofit and educational events,
may be subject to reduced or waived fees , as determined by City Council
resolution.
12.20.060 Special Event Permit application.
A. Special Event Permit Application Required. An application must be submitted to the
City by the Special Event Sponsor along with an application fee and an
administrative review fee (if applicable) in the amounts established by City Council
resolution.
An Indigent Person who is unable to pay the application fee due to such indigence
may not be required to pay the fee in accordance with administrative regulations
or guidelines adopted pursuant to this chapter. Application for indigent status shall
be made at the time of submission of the permit application and shall be
accompanied by such relevant information and documentation as may, in the
opinion of the Task Force Chairperson, be reasonably necessary to verify such
status.
B. Application Form and Contents. An application for a Special Event Permit shall be
on a City form and signed by the Applicant who is at least 18 years of age, and
contain all of the following information:
1. The name, address, email address, and daytime telephone number of each
of the following:
a. The Applicant and the Sponsor, if different from the Applicant (also
include evening telephone number),
b. An alternate person to contact if an emergency arises and the
Applicant is unavailable (also include evening telephone number),
c. If applicable: the president, chair or other head of the sponsor
organization; nonprofit documentation (also include written
documentation of the authority under which the Applicant is applying
on behalf of the organization), and
d. The person who will be present and in charge of the event on the day
of the event and their contact information during the event.
B-49
2. The requested event date, including the dates and times for set-up and
clean-up, and the starting and finishing time of the event. Also include two
alternative dates.
3. The estimated number of participants.
4. A site plan identifying the proposed event and staging locations, including
specific street closures or street routes, if any, or park area requested and
parking areas.
5. A site map showing emergency exit routes.
6. Any City equipment or personnel requested.
7. A description of the planned event.
8. A description of how the event will be promoted and any prior history of
promotions for similar events, including references.
9. The proposed distribution or sale of any food or beverage, including
alcoholic beverages. If alcoholic beverages are included, provide all
applicable licenses and registrations allowing the sale of alcoholic beverages
at the event.
10. The type and estimated number of vehicles, animals, or structures that will
be used.
11. A description and location of any sound amplification equipment proposed to
be used.
12. The location of electrical generators, stages, tents, canopies, cooking
apparatus and lights.
13. The location of mechanical rides, jump houses, or other amusement
attractions.
14. The location of any water, first aid, or comfort station(s) to be provided.
15. For each application for a parade: (i) the time when the units of the parade
will begin to assemble, (ii) the proposed assembly point for the parade, (iii)
the proposed parade route, (iv) the interval space to be maintained between
units of the parade, and (v) the number, type and size of floats or other
vehicles.
B-50
16. For a commercial or Mixed Free Speech event, a layout showing the
locations of booths, stages, audience, tables and chairs, food court, portable
bathrooms, emergency exits.
17. A preliminary security plan and any monitors to be employed during the
event.
18. Any other information which the Task Force reasonably requires to evaluate
the particular Special Event Permit application. In addition, the Task Force
can waive application requirements that the Task Force determines are
inapplicable.
19. A parking and transportation plan as deemed necessary by the Task Force,
based on the anticipated number of participants and the availability of
parking at the proposed location.
20. For Recurring Events, the Applicant shall also include the following
information:
i. The frequency of the proposed recurring event, including if
available a schedule with proposed dates and times. Proposed
schedules may be submitted as soon as available, but no later than
15 days prior to the start of the events.
ii. The minimum and maximum number of participants for each event.
12.20.070 Processing of Special Event Permit applications.
Special Event Permits will be processed based on the following:
A. Submission timelines.
1. Special Events. An application for a Special Event Permit shall be filed at
least 30 days prior to the date of a proposed Small Special Event, and at
least 90 days prior to the date of a proposed Large Special Event.
2. Hikes and nature walks. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in
Subsection A, above, Special Event Permit applications for hikes and
nature walks in the Preserve or any of the City’s trails may be submitted
15 days prior to the proposed event.
3. Recurring Special Event Permits. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary
in Subsection A, above, a Special Event Permit application for recurring
events must be submitted no later than 90 days prior to the start of the
Recurring Special Events. These permits shall only authorize the same
B-51
type of recurring event during the year, and is not intended to be a blanket
event permit for the Applicant or Sponsor.
4. Requested dates and times at specific locations shall be reserved on a
first come first served basis. If the date or time requested is not available,
the Chairperson shall inform the applicant within 5 business days and
shall suggest alternative dates and times. Applications for events
occurring more than 12 months from the date of the application shall not
be accepted.
B. The Task Force or Chairperson shall meet with the Applicant or Sponsor to review
the application to determine whether additional information is required and discuss
applicable conditions and potential security fees.
C. The Task Force shall make a decision on the application, set any conditions and
fees, and issue the permit. For Large Special Events, a decision on the Special
Event Permit shall be made by the Task Force no later than 10 calendar days
following the submission of a completed application.. For Small Special Events, a
decision on the Special Event Permit shall be made by the Task Force no later than
30 days following submission of a completed application.
D. In deciding whether to approve, or approve with conditions, the Task Force shall
make each of the following findings:
1. The Special Event, as proposed, does not pose a threat to health and
safety.
2. The use of sheriff and/or fire resources to support the event will not deny
reasonable sheriff and fire protection to the City.
3. The Special Event will not adversely interfere with previously City-approved
and/or scheduled construction, maintenance or other activities.
4. The Special Event will not adversely impact the health or safety of
surrounding properties; or the impacts can be significantly mitigated by way
of reasonable permit conditions. Adverse impacts include, but are not limited
to, noise, traffic, parking, trash, and damage to public property,
infrastructure, or facilities.
5. There will be negligible adverse impact on the condition of parks and open
space areas; proposed mitigation by the event Sponsor will be considered.
6. The Special Event shall not adversely impede the public’s reasonable use of
City streets, sidewalks, walkways, trails, and City parks.
B-52
7. The Special Event is in compliance with the attendance and other event
limitations as indicated in Table 12.20.040-1.
E. Conditions.
1. The Task Force may include in a Special Event Permit reasonable terms or
conditions as to the time, place, and manner of the event, notice
requirements, compliance with health and sanitary regulations, emergency
services, security payment of the Special Event Permit fee, reimbursement
of direct expenses incurred by the City, and a clean-up/damage deposit.
2. Additional permits or security fees may be required by other state or federal
agencies or federal, state, or local laws.
3. In order to accommodate other concurrent events, the rights of abutting
owners and the needs of the public to use streets or parks, the conditions
may include, but not be limited to, reasonable adjustments in the date, time,
route or location of the proposed event; accommodations of pedestrian or
vehicular traffic using the street; accommodations of public access to City
parks, the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve, and the City’s trails; and
limitations on the duration of the event.
4. A notice issued by the City for a Special Event Permit shall be mailed to
property owners located within a 500 foot radius of a fixed event site, a
parade route, or a run/race route describing the event and inviting the public
to comment. The Applicant shall cover the cost, including postage, for the
notice. The notice shall be mailed by first class mail at least 10 calendar
days before the date of a Small Event, and at least 20 calendar days before
the date of a Large Event.
5. Conditions relating to the use of amplified sound to minimize the interference
with the quiet enjoyment of neighboring properties.
6. Conditions relating to maintaining the public property in the same or better
condition after the Special Event. Conditions may address collection of trash,
access to rest facilities, prohibiting access to protected habitat, etc.
7. The Task Force may require a Special Event Permit Sponsor to reimburse
the City for the cost of repairs or habitat remediation needed because of the
Special Event.
F. Recurring Events. The Special Events Task Force may require a trial period before
approving all planned events. In no case shall recurring events be authorized for
more than one year at the time of application.
B-53
G. An application for a Special Event Permit can be denied on any of the following
grounds:
1. Applicant’s provision of false or misleading information;
2. Conflict with other planned events in the area;
3. Previous Special Event Permit violations by the Applicant or sponsor;
4. Inability to make all the findings for approval set forth above;
5. Exceeding special event attendance limits for a particular location; or
6. The location or park site requested is not eligible for special events.
H. CEQA Review. The Task Force will designate a staff person knowledgeable in the
California Environmental Quality Act to perform an environmental review of the
proposed special event.
12.20.080 Free Speech Special Event Permit application.
A. The following application procedures apply to a Free Speech Special Event only.
Parades and Mixed Free Speech Events shall be subject to the Special Event
Permit provisions of Section 12.20.040 through 12.20.070.
B. A Free Speech Special Event requires a Free Speech Special Event Permit when:
1. The proposed event may impede, obstruct, impair or interfere with the free
use of any public street, highway, alley, sidewalk, or other public right-of-
way, or with ingress or egress to the same; or
2. The proposed event may exceed the maximum attendance without permit
for the location of the event provided for in Table 12.20.040-1.
3. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this chapter, a Free Speech
Special Event Permit is not required for Spontaneous Events. The Sponsor
of a spontaneous event shall provide the Task Force with advance
notification to the extent practicable, as well as the following information: the
type of event; the date, time, and duration of the proposed event; the
location of the event and/or route, including which public spaces or public
right-of-ways may be obstructed or closed; and anticipated participation.
Spontaneous Events at particular locations may not be held that exceed the
maximum occupancy for that location, as provided for in Table 12.20.040-1.
C. A Free Speech Special Event application shall include the following information:
B-54
1. A description of the proposed event;
2. The street or other public property and the specific area or areas thereof to
be utilized in connection with the proposed event;
3. The manner in which the public property will be utilized;
4. The date or dates and the specific times of the proposed event, including
set-up and tear-down;
5. The name, address and telephone number of the sponsor of the proposed
event;
6. The name, address and telephone number of the person or persons to be
contacted regarding the application or the permit.
7. Anticipated participation, including any animals that may be in attendance.
D. Timing of application. The Applicant shall file a complete application for a Free
Speech Special Event Permit with the Task Force Chairperson as soon as
possible, but no later than 5 business days before the proposed event. The Task
Force shall review the Free Speech Special Event Permit application to establish
reasonable conditions to address health and safety only, notification of the decision,
and appeal from the decision.
E. Task Force’s Decision. The Task Force shall render a decision in accordance with
the findings set forth herein within two business days following the filing of the
completed application.
1. The event, as proposed, will not pose a threat to health and safety;
2. The use of sheriff and/or fire resources to support the event will not deny
reasonable sheriff and fire protection to the City;
3. The event will not interfere with previously City-approved and/or scheduled
construction or maintenance, or with a previously permitted special event;
4. No consideration was given to the message of the event, the content of
speech, the identity or associational relationships of the Applicant, or to any
assumptions or predictions as to the amount of hostility which may be
aroused in the public by the content of the speech or message conveyed by
the event.
5. The event is in compliance with the attendance and other limitations as
provided in Table 12.20.040-1.
B-55
6. There will be minimal or no adverse impact on the condition of parks and
open space areas, proposed measures to mitigate any adverse impacts
shall be taken into consideration.
F. Notification of Decision. The Task Force Chairperson shall notify the Applicant in
writing (and orally, if possible) of the decision, including a statement of the reasons
for any conditions or the grounds for a denial. If a change in the time or location of
the proposed event would allow approval of the application, the Chairperson shall
propose an alternative to the Applicant. Any conditions shall be directed
G.. Applicant’s Acceptance. The Applicant shall notify the Chairperson in writing of their
acceptance forthwith after written notice of the decision. Once the Applicant
submits a written acceptance of the Task Force’s decision, the Free Speech
Special Event Permit shall be approved and the Chairperson shall notify the City
Council and the City Manager that the permit has been issued.
H. Free Speech Special Events will not be required to comply with any of the
following as a condition of receiving a permit:
1. Any fee or charge required by the City.
2. Any insurance or proof of insurance covering the Free Speech Event, its
organizers, or participants, including the requirements of Section 12.20.150.
3. Any requirement of indemnification or agreement to hold harmless, including
the requirements of Section 12.20.140.
I. Appeal. Any decision relating to the issuance of a Free Speech Special Events
Permit may be appealed to the City Manager. The appeal must be in writing and
must be submitted to the City Manager’s Office within two business days of the
Task Force’s decision. The City Manager shall decide the appeal within one
business day. The City Manager’s decision shall be final.
J. Judicial Review. Decisions regarding a Free Speech Special Event Permit are
eligible for expedited judicial review pursuant to Section 1094.8 of the Code of Civil
Procedure.
12.20.090 Special Event Task Force.
A. A Special Event Task Force is hereby created to carry out the provisions of this code
relating to permits for Special Events, Free Speech Special Events, and Mixed Free
Speech Special Events (collectively, Special Events), is comprised of representatives
of City departments, including, but not limited to, the following departments: Public
Works, Community Development, and Parks and Recreation. The Task Force may
also invite representatives from other City departments, public agencies, or
community or neighborhood organizations to provide comments on proposed special
B-56
events. Examples of such agencies/organizations include, but are not limited to the
Los Angeles County Sheriff and the Los Angeles County Fire. The Chairperson of
the Task Force shall be a Department Director or the Deputy City Manager, as
designated by the City Manager. The Chairperson shall provide for maintaining Task
Force records, arranging meeting times and places, and issuing a Special Event
Permit on behalf of the Task Force.
B. The Special Event Task Force shall have the power to:
1. Interpret and administer this code;
2. Represent the City, in accordance with procedures adopted by the City
Manager, in discussions and in maintaining agreements with Applicant or
Sponsor;
3. Coordinate with City departments and with other government agencies for the
provision of governmental services for such Special Events;
4. Establish terms and conditions, appropriate security fees and deposits, and
the time(s), place and manner of the Special Event;
5. Approve or deny Special Event Permits;
6. Adopt policies for administering this code as necessary.
12.20.100 Special Event Permit fees and charges.
A. Special Event Permit fees and charges are established by resolution of the City
Council. The application fee must be submitted with the application. Other costs for
City services shall be invoiced to the Applicant no later than 10 calendar days after
the expiration date of the permit. The Applicant shall pay all fees and charges within
30 calendar days of invoice otherwise late fees shall apply.
B. In addition to the payment of any applicable non-refundable permit application fees,
all Applicants or sponsors shall be responsible for paying for all City departmental,
Los Angeles County Sheriff, or Los Angeles County Fire service charges incurred in
connection with or due to the permittee’s activities under the permit.
12.20.110 Revocation.
A Special Event Permit can be revoked by the Task Force for any of the following reasons:
A. Failure to comply with any permitting requirements or conditions of approval;
B. Knowingly providing false, misleading, or fraudulent information;
B-57
C. Failing to pay required fees, charges, or deposits;
D. Failing to agree to the indemnification provisions or failing to provide proof of
insurance to the extent required; or
E. The event materially changes after a permit has been approved.
12.20.120 Enforcement.
A. Violations of this chapter shall be charged to the Applicant and/or Sponsor of the
event pursuant to Chapters 1.08 and 1.16 of this Code, as well as any other
remedies available to the City at law or equity.
B. In addition to the penalties provided for in Chapters 1.08 and 1.16 of this Code,
Sponsors, Applicants, or Participants of an event may be cited and/or ejected from
the public property for violations of this Chapter after notice and an opportunity to
cure the violation.
12.20.130 Appeal.
A. A decision regarding a Special Event Permit application may be appealed in writing
to the City Manager within 10 calendar days of the Task Force’s decision for Large
Special Events and within 5 calendar days of the Task Force’s decision for Small
Special Events.
B. The City Manager shall make a decision on the appeal within 10 calendar days of
receipt of the appeal for Large Special Events and within 5 calendar days of receipt
of the appeal for Small Special Events.
C. The decision of the City Manager shall be final, and is subject to judicial review
pursuant to Section 1094.5 and 1094.6 of the Code of Civil Procedure .
12.20.140 Hold harmless.
As a condition to the issuance of any permit under this chapter, the Applicant/Sponsor
shall agree to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City, its elected and appointed
officials, employees and agents, against losses and liabilities incurred from the conduct
of the permittee, or its officers, employees, and agents, or claims or liabilities caused by,
or arising out of any activities authorized by any such permit.
12.20.150 Insurance requirements for special events.
The Applicant shall provide general liability insurance naming the City, its elected and
appointed officials, employees, and agents, as an additional insured. Limits of coverage
will be determined by the City Attorney’s office at the time of application. Certificates o f
insurance are to be submitted to the City for approval 14 calendar days prior to the day
B-58
of the event. Acceptability of insurance is subject to approval by the City’s Risk Manager.
This requirement does not apply to Free Speech Events.
SECTION 3. SEVERABILITY. If any section, subsection, subdivision, sentence,
clause, phrase, or portion of this Ordinance or the application thereof to any person or
place, is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court
of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remainder of this
Ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance,
and each and every section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion
thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, subdivisions,
sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions thereof be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 4. EFFECTIVE DATE. This ordinance shall be effective on the thirtieth
(30th) day after the day of its adoption.
SECTION 5. CERTIFICATION. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this
Ordinance and shall cause the same to be posted in the manner required by law.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED this ___ day of ________________ 2019.
Jerry V. Duhovic, Mayor
ATTEST:
Emily Colborn, City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES )
B-59
I, Emily Colborn, City Clerk of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, do hereby certify that
the whole number of members of the City Council of said City is five; that the foregoing
Ordinance No. , was duly and regularly adopted by the City Council of said
City at a regular meeting thereof held on and that the same was passed and adopted by
the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
______________________________
City Clerk
B-60
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO
PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA, REPEALING AND REPLACING
CHAPTER 12.20 (SPECIAL EVENT PERMITS) OF TITLE 12 (STREETS,
SIDEWALKS AND PUBLIC PLACES) OF THE RANCHO PALOS
VERDES MUNICIPAL CODE.
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes recognizes the
substantial community benefit that may result from community events, which can
provide cultural enrichment and economic vitality and can enhance community identity;
and
WHEREAS, the City Council wishes to update the City’s coordinated processes
for managing community events to ensure the public health, safety, and welfare of event
patrons, residents and other visitors, and to provide for fees and procedures required to
administer the permit process.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS
VERDES DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The facts set forth in the Recitals of this Ordinance are true and
correct, and incorporated herein.
SECTION 2. Chapter 12.20 (Special Event Permits) of Title 12 (Streets,
Sidewalks and Public Places) is repealed and replaced with the following:
Chapter 12.20
SPECIAL EVENT PERMITS
Sections:
12.20.010 Title.
12.20.020 Purpose.
12.20.030 Definitions.
12.20.040 Special Event Permit required.
12.20.050 Exemptions and waivers.
12.20.060 Special Event Permit application.
12.20.070 Processing of Special Event Permit applications.
12.20.080 Free Speech Special Event Permit application.
12.20.090 Special Event Task Force.
12.20.100 Special Event Permit fees and charges.
12.20.110 Revocation.
12.20.120 Enforcement.
12.20.130 Appeal.
12.20.140 Hold Harmless.
12.20.150 Insurance Requirements for Special Events.
C-1
12.20.010 Title.
This chapter shall be known as the Special Event Permits Ordinance.
12.20.020 Purpose.
A. It is the purpose of this chapter to provide for the issuance of Special Event
Permits to regulate events on the public streets and public property of the City;
and to provide for fees, charges, and procedures required to administer the
permit process.
B. It is further the purpose of this chapter to provide for expedited procedures for
Free Speech Special Events, while also providing for the protection and
preservation of public spaces and public resources.
12.20.030 Definitions.
The following words and phrases when used in this chapter shall mean:
“Amplified sound” means music or speech projected or transmitted by electronic
equipment, including, but not limited to, an amplifier, loudspeakers, or similar devices.
“Annual event” means an event recurring each year at approximately the same date.
“Applicant” means the event sponsor or the sponsor’s authorized agent who completes
the permit application and acts as primary contact for a Special Event.
“City-partnered event” means an event organized and run by a non-profit organization in
conjunction with the City, where the City provides sponsorship or partnership and
retains control over how the event(s) is run and/or publicized. Examples include nature
hikes in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve led by Palos Verdes Peninsula Land
Conservancy docents.
“City Manager” means the City Manager of the City of Rancho Palos Ve rdes, and shall
include his/her designee.
“Covered Event” includes, but is not limited to, any of the following one-time or recurring
or annual events: a commercial event (e.g., a fair, carnival, farmers market), a spectator
sport (e.g., beach volleyball, hockey, basketball, surfing competition), an athletic event
(e.g., races, runs), a community event (e.g., beach/park clean up, sandcastle building, a
hike or nature walk); parades; and Mixed Free Speech Events. City-partnered events of
any nature shall not be included in this definition.
“Event participants” means persons in attendance at an event, including spectators,
vendors, event staff, City staff, and all others present for the purpose of the event. Any
C-2
persons in attendance at an event for the purpose of protesting the event shall not be
considered event participants.
“Fair/carnival” means a traveling enterprise offering amusements, or a gathering of
buyers and sellers, held at a temporary location for one or more days.
“Free speech” means speech and expressive conduct protected by the First
Amendment of the United States Constitution or by Article 1, Section 2 of the California
Constitution.
“Free Speech Special Event” or “Mixed Free Speech Special Event” means an event at
which the expression of free speech rights is the principal purpose of the event , or
where free speech is entwined with commercial purposes . Examples of Free Speech
Special Events include a parade, protest, speech, or rally; individual street performers.
A Mixed Free Speech Special Event is one that has a commercial component, or that is
open to the public for entertainment or cultural purposes; mixed free speech events are
not dependent on current events and require time and logistical support to organize;
examples include a circus, outdoor theater, art fair, or other organized art or
entertainment.
“Indigent person” means: (1) a person who is receiving benefits pursuant to the
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and State Supplemental Payments (SSP)
programs (Sections 12200 to 12205, inclusive, of the California Welfare and Institutions
Code), the California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids Act (CalWORKs)
program (Chapter 2, commencing with Section 11200 of Part 3 of Division 9 of the
California Welfare and Institutions Code), the Food Stamp program (7 U.S.C. Section
2011 et seq.) or Section 17000 of the Welfare and Institutions Code; (2) a person whose
monthly income is 125% or less of the current monthly poverty line annually established
by the Secretary of Health and Human Services pursuant to the Omnibus Budget
Reconciliation Act of 1981, as amended.
“Mission-aligned event” means an event (one -time, recurring, or annual) that takes
place in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve and/or within the City trails system, and that
is organized and run by a nonprofit entity whose mission is aligned with the City’s goals
of habitat and sensitive species preservation and protection of the City’s open spaces.
Examples include nature hikes by the Sierra Club and the Boy Scouts of America.
“Parade” means a public procession, typically celebrating a special day or event and
including marching bands and floats, in the public right-of-way.
“Race/run” means an organized competitive event upon a public street, sidewalk,
walkway, or other publicly owned property including City parks , in which persons
participate by walking, running, riding a bicycle or horse, or operating a wheelchair.
“Recurring event” means an event that will occur repeatedly within a one -year period.
C-3
“Special Event” shall mean any event that requires a Special Event Permit, as provided
for in Section 12.20.40. Small Special Events shall be events with an anticipated
attendance of 150 or fewer people. Large Special Events shall be events wi th an
anticipated attendance of more than 150 people.
“Sponsor” means the person or group responsible for or organizing the special event.
“Spontaneous event” means a Free Speech Event occasioned by news or events
coming into public knowledge 4 business days or fewer prior to such event.
“Task Force” means the Special Events Task Force as constituted by this code.
“Transportation management/parking plan” means a plan developed by the special
event sponsor to identify and mitigate traffic/parking impacts associated with a special
event.
12.20.040 Special Event Permit required.
A Special Event Permit must be obtained from the City if the proposed event meets any
of the following criteria (also see Table 12.20.040-1):
A. A Covered Event with an anticipated participation requiring a permit for the
location of the event provided for in Table 12.20.040-1, below.
B. Any event, including a Free Speech Special Event, which may impede, obstruct,
impair or interfere with the free use of any public street, highway, alley, sidewalk,
or other public way, or with an anticipated participation requiring a permit for the
location of the event provided for in Table 12.20.040-1, below.
C. Any event, including a Free Speech Special Event, which involves any activity or
event on public property that requires the placement of a tent, canopy, or other
temporary structure if that placement requires a permit from the City’s Fire
Department or Building and Safety Division.
D. Any event, including a Free Speech Special Event, which will use amplified
sound.
E. All events, whether requiring a Permit or not, must comply with the attendance
limitations at the particular location, in accordance with Table 12.20.040 -1.
F. Special Event Permits shall be subject to the permitting provisions of Section
12.20.060 and 12.20.070. Free Speech Special Events shall be subject to the
alternative permitting provisions of Section 12.20.080.
C-4
Table 12.20.040-1
Location Special Event (12.20.040;
12.20.060; 12.20.070)
Free Speech Special Event
(12.20.040; 12.20.080)
Maximum
Attendance (all
events)
Public
right-of-
way
Permit required when
-- 100 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 500 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
N/A
Civic
Center
(Upper
Point
Vicente
Park/ City
Hall)
Permit required when
-- 30 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 300 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
1000 for Free
Speech Events
500 for all other
Special Events
Hesse Park Permit required when
-- 30 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 300 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
500
Lower
Point
Vicente
Park
(Vicente
Park
Interpretive
Center)
Permit required when
-- 30 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 300 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
1000 for Free
Speech Events
500 for all other
Special Events
Robert
Ryan Park
Permit required when
-- 20 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 50 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200
Ladera
Linda Park
Permit required when
-- 20 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
Permit required when
-- 50 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
200
C-5
Location Special Event (12.20.040;
12.20.060; 12.20.070)
Free Speech Special Event
(12.20.040; 12.20.080)
Maximum
Attendance (all
events)
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Eastview
Park
Permit required when
-- 20 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when
-- 50 people; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200
Palos
Verdes
Nature
Preserve
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 20 or more people
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
40 for Free
Speech Events
20 for all other
events/groups
Del Cerro
Park
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if :
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
Frank S.
Vanderlip
Park
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups.
Abalone
Cove
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
C-6
Location Special Event (12.20.040;
12.20.060; 12.20.070)
Free Speech Special Event
(12.20.040; 12.20.080)
Maximum
Attendance (all
events)
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
events/groups
Marilyn
Ryan
Sunset
Park
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
Founders
Park
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
Grandview
Park
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
Pelican
Cove Park
No permit required. Maximum
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Permit required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- amplified sound; or
-- may interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
C-7
12.20.050 Exemptions and waivers.
A. Special Events with an anticipated participation below the thresholds indicated in
Table 12.20.040-1 shall not require a Special Event Permit.
B. City-partnered events do not require Special Event Permits.
C. Permits for mission-aligned events, as well as for nonprofit and educational
events, may be subject to reduced or waived fees, as determined by City Council
resolution.
12.20.060 Special Event Permit application.
A. Special Event Permit Application Required. An application must be submitted to the
City by the Special Event Sponsor along with an application fee and an
administrative review fee (if applicable) in the amounts establis hed by City
Council resolution.
An Indigent Person who is unable to pay the application fee due to such
indigence may not be required to pay the fee in accordance with administrative
regulations or guidelines adopted pursuant to this chapter. Application for
indigent status shall be made at the time of submission of the permit application
and shall be accompanied by such relevant information and documentation as
may, in the opinion of the Task Force Chairperson, be reasonably necessary to
verify such status.
B. Application Form and Contents. An application for a Special Event Permit shall
be on a City form and signed by the Applicant who is at least 18 years of age, and
contain all of the following information:
1. The name, address, email address, and daytime telephone number of each
of the following:
a. The Applicant and the Sponsor, if different from the Applicant (also
include evening telephone number),
b. An alternate person to contact if an emergency arises and the
Applicant is unavailable (also include evening telephone number),
c. If applicable: the president, chair or other head of the sponsor
organization; nonprofit documentation (also include written
documentation of the authority under which the Applicant is applying
on behalf of the organization), and
d. The person who will be present and in charge of the event on the day
of the event and their contact information during the event.
C-8
2. The requested event date, including the dates and times for set-up and
clean-up, and the starting and finishing time of the event. Also include two
alternative dates.
3. The estimated number of participants.
4. A site plan identifying the proposed event and staging locations, including
specific street closures or street routes, if any, or park area requested and
parking areas.
5. A site map showing emergency exit routes.
6. Any City equipment or personnel requested.
7. A description of the planned event.
8. A description of how the event will be promoted and any prior history of
promotions for similar events, including references.
9. The proposed distribution or sale of any food or beverage, including
alcoholic beverages. If alcoholic beverages are included, provide all
applicable licenses and registrations allowing the sale of alcoholic beverages
at the event.
10. The type and estimated number of vehicles, animals, or structures that will
be used.
11. A description and location of any sound amplification equipment proposed to
be used.
12. The location of electrical generators, stages, tents, canopies, cooking
apparatus and lights.
13. The location of mechanical rides, jump houses, or other amusement
attractions.
14. The location of any water, first aid, or comfort station(s) to be provided.
15. For each application for a parade: (i) the time when the units of the parade
will begin to assemble, (ii) the proposed assembly point for the parade, (iii)
the proposed parade route, (iv) the interval space to be maintained between
units of the parade, and (v) the number, type and size of floats or other
vehicles.
C-9
16. For a commercial or Mixed Free Speech event, a layout showing the
locations of booths, stages, audience, tables and chairs, food court, portable
bathrooms, emergency exits.
17. A preliminary security plan and any monitors to be employed during the
event.
18. Any other information which the Task Force reasonably requires to evaluate
the particular Special Event Permit application. In addition, the Task Force
can waive application requirements that the Task Force determines are
inapplicable.
19. A parking and transportation plan as deemed necessary by the Task Force,
based on the anticipated number of participants and the availability of
parking at the proposed location.
20. For Recurring Events, the Applicant shall also include the following
information:
i. The frequency of the proposed recurring event, including if
available a schedule with proposed dates and times. Proposed
schedules may be submitted as soon as available, but no later than
15 days prior to the start of the events.
ii. The minimum and maximum number of participants for each event.
12.20.070 Processing of Special Event Permit applications.
Special Event Permits will be processed based on the following:
A. Submission timelines.
1. Special Events. An application for a Special Event Permit shall be filed at
least 30 days prior to the date of a proposed Small Special Event, and at
least 90 days prior to the date of a proposed Large Special Event.
2. Hikes and nature walks. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in
Subsection A, above, Special Event Permit applications for hikes and
nature walks in the Preserve or any of the City’s trails may be submitted
15 days prior to the proposed event.
3. Recurring Special Event Permits. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary
in Subsection A, above, a Special Event Permit application for recurring
events must be submitted no later than 90 days prior to the start of the
Recurring Special Events. These permits shall only authorize the same
C-10
type of recurring event during the year, and is not intended to be a blanket
event permit for the Applicant or Sponsor.
4. Requested dates and times at specific locations shall be reserved on a
first come first served basis. If the date or time requested is not available,
the Chairperson shall inform the applicant within 5 business days and
shall suggest alternative dates and times. Applications for events
occurring more than 12 months from the date of the application shall not
be accepted.
B. The Task Force or Chairperson shall meet with the Applicant or Sponsor to review
the application to determine whether additional information is required and discuss
applicable conditions and potential security fees.
C. The Task Force shall make a decision on the application, set any conditions and
fees, and issue the permit. For Large Special Events, a decision on the Special
Event Permit shall be made by the Task Force no later than 10 calendar days
following the submission of a completed application.. For Small Special Events, a
decision on the Special Event Permit shall be made by the Task Force no later than
30 days following submission of a completed application.
D. In deciding whether to approve, or approve with conditions, the Task Force shall
make each of the following findings:
1. The Special Event, as proposed, does not pose a threat to health and
safety.
2. The use of sheriff and/or fire resources to support the event will not deny
reasonable sheriff and fire protection to the City.
3. The Special Event will not adversely interfere with previously City-approved
and/or scheduled construction, maintenance or other activities.
4. The Special Event will not adversely impact the health or safety of
surrounding properties; or the impacts can be significantly mitigated by way
of reasonable permit conditions. Adverse impacts include, but are not limited
to, noise, traffic, parking, trash, and damage to public property,
infrastructure, or facilities.
5. There will be negligible adverse impact on the condition of parks and open
space areas; proposed mitigation by the event Sponsor will be considered.
6. The Special Event shall not adversely impede the public’s reasonable use of
City streets, sidewalks, walkways, trails, and City parks.
C-11
7. The Special Event is in compliance with the attendance and other event
limitations as indicated in Table 12.20.040-1.
E. Conditions.
1. The Task Force may include in a Special Event Permit reasonable terms or
conditions as to the time, place, and manner of the event, notice
requirements, compliance with health and sanitary regulations, emergency
services, security payment of the Special Event Permit fee, reimbursement
of direct expenses incurred by the City, and a clean-up/damage deposit.
2. Additional permits or security fees may be required by other state or federal
agencies or federal, state, or local laws.
3. In order to accommodate other concurrent events, the rights of abutting
owners and the needs of the public to use streets or parks, the conditions
may include, but not be limited to, reasonable adjustments in the date, time,
route or location of the proposed event; accommodations of pedestrian or
vehicular traffic using the street; accommodations of public access to City
parks, the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve, and the City’s trails; and
limitations on the duration of the event.
4. A notice issued by the City for a Special Event Permit shall be mailed to
property owners located within a 500 foot radius of a fixed event site, a
parade route, or a run/race route describing the event and inviting the public
to comment. The Applicant shall cover the cost, including postage, for the
notice. The notice shall be mailed by first class mail at least 10 calendar
days before the date of a Small Event, and at least 20 calendar days before
the date of a Large Event.
5. Conditions relating to the use of amplified sound to minimize the interference
with the quiet enjoyment of neighboring properties.
6. Conditions relating to maintaining the public property in the same or better
condition after the Special Event. Conditions may address collection of trash,
access to rest facilities, prohibiting access to protected habitat, etc.
7. The Task Force may require a Special Event Permit Sponsor to reimburse
the City for the cost of repairs or habitat remediation needed because of the
Special Event.
F. Recurring Events. The Special Events Task Force may require a trial period before
approving all planned events. In no case shall recurring events be authorized for
more than one year at the time of application.
C-12
G. An application for a Special Event Permit can be denied on any of the following
grounds:
1. Applicant’s provision of false or misleading information;
2. Conflict with other planned events in the area;
3. Previous Special Event Permit violations by the Applicant or sponsor;
4. Inability to make all the findings for approval set forth above;
5. Exceeding special event attendance limits for a particular location; or
6. The location or park site requested is not eligible for special events.
H. CEQA Review. The Task Force will designate a staff person knowledgeable in the
California Environmental Quality Act to perform an environmental review of the
proposed special event.
12.20.080 Free Speech Special Event Permit application.
A. The following application procedures apply to a Free Speech Special Event only.
Parades and Mixed Free Speech Events shall be subject to the Special Event
Permit provisions of Section 12.20.040 through 12.20.070.
B. A Free Speech Special Event requires a Free Speech Special Event Permit when:
1. The proposed event may impede, obstruct, impair or interfere with the free
use of any public street, highway, alley, sidewalk, or other public right-of-
way, or with ingress or egress to the same; or
2. The proposed event may exceed the maximum attendance without permit
for the location of the event provided for in Table 12.20.040-1.
3. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this chapter, a Free Speech
Special Event Permit is not required for Spontaneous Events. The Sponsor
of a spontaneous event shall provide the Task Force with advance
notification to the extent practicable, as well as the following information: the
type of event; the date, time, and duration of the proposed event; the
location of the event and/or route, including which public spaces or public
right-of-ways may be obstructed or closed; and anticipated participation.
Spontaneous Events at particular locations may not be held that exceed the
maximum occupancy for that location, as provided for in Table 12.20.040-1.
C. A Free Speech Special Event application shall include the following information:
C-13
1. A description of the proposed event;
2. The street or other public property and the specific area or areas thereof to
be utilized in connection with the proposed event;
3. The manner in which the public property will be utilized;
4. The date or dates and the specific times of the proposed event, including
set-up and tear-down;
5. The name, address and telephone number of the sponsor of the proposed
event;
6. The name, address and telephone number of the person or persons to be
contacted regarding the application or the permit.
7. Anticipated participation, including any animals that may be in attendance.
D. Timing of application. The Applicant shall file a complete application for a Free
Speech Special Event Permit with the Task Force Chairperson as soon as
possible, but no later than 5 business days before the proposed event. The Task
Force shall review the Free Speech Special Event Permit application to establish
reasonable conditions to address health and safety only, notification of the decision,
and appeal from the decision.
E. Task Force’s Decision. The Task Force shall render a decision in accordance with
the findings set forth herein within two business days following the filing of the
completed application.
1. The event, as proposed, will not pose a threat to health and safety;
2. The use of sheriff and/or fire resources to support the event will not deny
reasonable sheriff and fire protection to the City;
3. The event will not interfere with previously City-approved and/or scheduled
construction or maintenance, or with a previously permitted special event;
4. No consideration was given to the message of the event, the content of
speech, the identity or associational relationships of the Applicant, or to any
assumptions or predictions as to the amount of hostility which may be
aroused in the public by the content of the speech or message conveyed by
the event.
5. The event is in compliance with the attendance and other limitations as
provided in Table 12.20.040-1.
C-14
6. There will be minimal or no adverse impact on the condition of parks and
open space areas, proposed measures to mitigate any adverse impacts
shall be taken into consideration.
F. Notification of Decision. The Task Force Chairperson shall notify the Applicant in
writing (and orally, if possible) of the decision, including a statement of the reasons
for any conditions or the grounds for a denial. If a change in the time or location of
the proposed event would allow approval of the application, the Chairperson shall
propose an alternative to the Applicant. Any conditions shall be directed
G.. Applicant’s Acceptance. The Applicant shall notify the Chairperson in writing of their
acceptance forthwith after written notice of the decision. Once the Applicant
submits a written acceptance of the Task Force’s decision, the Free Speech
Special Event Permit shall be approved and the Chairperson shall notify the City
Council and the City Manager that the permit has been issued.
H. Free Speech Special Events will not be required to comply with any of the
following as a condition of receiving a permit:
1. Any fee or charge required by the City.
2. Any insurance or proof of insurance covering the Free Speech Event, its
organizers, or participants, including the requirements of Section 12.20.150.
3. Any requirement of indemnification or agreement to hold harmless, including
the requirements of Section 12.20.140.
I. Appeal. Any decision relating to the issuance of a Free Speech Special Events
Permit may be appealed to the City Manager. The appeal must be in writing and
must be submitted to the City Manager’s Office within two business days of the
Task Force’s decision. The City Manager shall decide the appeal within one
business day. The City Manager’s decision shall be final.
J. Judicial Review. Decisions regarding a Free Speech Special Event Permit are
eligible for expedited judicial review pursuant to Section 1094.8 of the Code of Civil
Procedure.
12.20.090 Special Event Task Force.
A. A Special Event Task Force is hereby created to carry out the provisions of this
code relating to permits for Special Events, Free Speech Special Events, and
Mixed Free Speech Special Events (collectively, Special Events), is comprised of
representatives of City departments, including, but not limited to, the following
departments: Public Works, Community Development, and Parks and Recreation.
The Task Force may also invite representatives from other City departments, public
agencies, or community or neighborhood organizations to provide comments on
C-15
proposed special events. Examples of such agencies/organizations include, but are
not limited to the Los Angeles County Sheriff and the Los Angeles County Fire. The
Chairperson of the Task Force shall be a Department Director or the Deputy City
Manager, as designated by the City Manager. The Chairperson shall provide for
maintaining Task Force records, arranging meeting times and places, and issuing a
Special Event Permit on behalf of the Task Force.
B. The Special Event Task Force shall have the power to:
1. Interpret and administer this code;
2. Represent the City, in accordance with procedures adopted by the City
Manager, in discussions and in maintaining agreements with Applicant or
Sponsor;
3. Coordinate with City departments and with other government agencies for
the provision of governmental services for such Special Events;
4. Establish terms and conditions, appropriate security fees and deposits, and
the time(s), place and manner of the Special Event;
5. Approve or deny Special Event Permits;
6. Adopt policies for administering this code as necessary.
12.20.100 Special Event Permit fees and charges.
A. Special Event Permit fees and charges are established by resolution of the City
Council. The application fee must be submitted with the application. Other costs for
City services shall be invoiced to the Applicant no later than 10 calendar days after
the expiration date of the permit. The Applicant shall pay all fees and charges within
30 calendar days of invoice otherwise late fees shall apply.
B. In addition to the payment of any applicable non-refundable permit application fees,
all Applicants or sponsors shall be responsible for paying for all City departmental,
Los Angeles County Sheriff, or Los Angeles County Fire service charges incurred in
connection with or due to the permittee’s activities under the permit.
12.20.110 Revocation.
A Special Event Permit can be revoked by the Task Force for any of the following reasons:
A. Failure to comply with any permitting requirements or conditions of approval;
B. Knowingly providing false, misleading, or fraudulent information;
C-16
C. Failing to pay required fees, charges, or deposits;
D. Failing to agree to the indemnification provisions or failing to provide proof of
insurance to the extent required; or
E. The event materially changes after a permit has been approved.
12.20.120 Enforcement.
A. Violations of this chapter shall be charged to the Applicant and/or Sponsor of the
event pursuant to Chapters 1.08 and 1.16 of this Code, as well as any other
remedies available to the City at law or equity.
B. In addition to the penalties provided for in Chapters 1.08 and 1.16 of this Code,
Sponsors, Applicants, or Participants of an event may be cited and/or ejected from
the public property for violations of this Chapter after notice and an opportunity to
cure the violation.
12.20.130 Appeal.
A. A decision regarding a Special Event Permit application may be appealed in
writing to the City Manager within 10 calendar days of the Task Force’s decision
for Large Special Events and within 5 calendar days of the Task Force’s decision
for Small Special Events.
B. The City Manager shall make a decision on the appeal within 10 calendar days of
receipt of the appeal for Large Special Events and within 5 calendar days of
receipt of the appeal for Small Special Events.
C. The decision of the City Manager shall be final, and is subject to judicial review
pursuant to Section 1094.5 and 1094.6 of the Code of Civil Procedure .
12.20.140 Hold harmless.
As a condition to the issuance of any permit under this chapter, the Applicant/Sponsor
shall agree to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City, its elected and appointed
officials, employees and agents, against losses and liabilities incurred from the conduct
of the permittee, or its officers, employees, and agents, or claims or liabilities caused by,
or arising out of any activities authorized by any such permit.
12.20.150 Insurance requirements for special events.
The Applicant shall provide general liability insurance naming the City, its elected and
appointed officials, employees, and agents, as an additional ins ured. Limits of coverage
will be determined by the City Attorney’s office at the time of application. Certificates of
insurance are to be submitted to the City for approval 14 calendar days prior to the day
C-17
of the event. Acceptability of insurance is subject to approval by the City’s Risk
Manager. This requirement does not apply to Free Speech Events.
SECTION 3. SEVERABILITY. If any section, subsection, subdivision, sentence,
clause, phrase, or portion of this Ordinance or the application thereof to any person or
place, is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court
of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remainder of
this Ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this
Ordinance, and each and every section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause,
phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections,
subsections, subdivisions, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions thereof be declared
invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 4. EFFECTIVE DATE. This ordinance shall be effective on the thirtieth
(30th) day after the day of its adoption.
SECTION 5. CERTIFICATION. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this
Ordinance and shall cause the same to be posted in the manner required by law.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED this ___ day of ________________ 2019.
Jerry V. Duhovic, Mayor
ATTEST:
Emily Colborn, City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES )
C-18
I, Emily Colborn, City Clerk of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, do hereby certify that
the whole number of members of the City Council of said City is five; that the foregoing
Ordinance No. , was duly and regularly adopted by the City Council of said
City at a regular meeting thereof held on and that the same was passed and adopted by
the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
______________________________
City Clerk
C-19
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO
PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA, REPEALING AND REPLACING
CHAPTER 12.20 (SPECIAL EVENT PERMITS) OF TITLE 12 (STREETS,
SIDEWALKS AND PUBLIC PLACES) OF THE RANCHO PALOS VERDES
MUNICIPAL CODE.
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes recognizes the
substantial community benefit that may result from community events, which can provide
cultural enrichment and economic vitality and can enhance community identity; and.
WHEREAS, the City Council wishes to update the City’s coordinated processes for
managing community events to ensure the public health, safety, and welfare of event
patrons, residents and other visitors, and to provide for fees and procedures required to
administer the permit process.
WHEREAS, with this ordinance, the City Council does not intend to change the
rules for ordinary use of public property.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OFTHE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES DOES ORDAIN AS
FOLLOWSORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The facts set forth in the Recitals of this Ordinance are true and correct,
and incorporated herein.
SECTION 2. Chapter 12.20 (Special Event Permits) of Title 12 (Streets,
Sidewalks and Public Places) is repealed and replaced with the following:
Chapter 12.20
SPECIAL EVENT PERMITS
Sections:
12.20.010 Title.
12.20.020 Purpose.
12.20.030 Definitions.
12.20.040 Special Event Permit required.
12.20.050 Exemptions and waivers.
12.20.060 Special Event Permit application.
12.20.070 Processing of Special Event Permit applications.
D-1
12.20.080 Free Speech Special Event Permit application.
12.20.090 Special Event Task Force.
12.20.100 Special Event Permit fees and charges.
12.20.110 Revocation.
12.20.120 Enforcement.
12.20.130 Appeal.
12.20.140 Hold Harmless.
12.20.150 Insurance Requirements for Special Events.
D-2
12.20.010 Title.
This chapter shall be known as the Special Event Permits Ordinance.
12.20.020 Purpose.
A. A. It is the purpose of this chapter to provide for the issuance of Special Event
Permits to regulate large, organized events on the public streets and public property
of the City; and to provide for fees, charges, and procedures required to administer
the permit process. This ordinance shall not be interpreted to require picnics and
impromptu gatherings at public parks to obtain a permit. Large groups who wish to
reserve specific areas in public parks may do so through the Recreation & Parks
Department of the City.
B. B. It is further the purpose of this chapter to provide for expedited procedures for
Free Speech Special Events, while also providing for the protection and preservation
of public spaces and public resources.
12.20.030 Definitions.
The following words and phrases when used in this chapter shall mean:
“Amplified sound” means music or speech projected or transmitted by electronic equipment,
including, but not limited to, an amplifier, loudspeakers, or similar devices.
“Annual event” means an event recurring each year at approximately the same date.
“Applicant” means the event sponsor or the sponsor’s authorized agent who completes
the permit application and acts as primary contact for a Special Event.
“City-partnered event” means an event organized and run by a non-profit organization in
conjunction with the City, where the City provides sponsorship or partnership and retains
control over how the event(s) is run and/or publicized. Examples include nature hikes in the
Palos Verdes Nature Preserve led by Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy docents.
and Los Serenos Docent hikes and tours.
“City Manager” means the City Manager of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, and shall
include his/her designee.
“Covered Event” includes, but is not limited to, any of the following one-time or recurring or
annual events: a commercial event (e.g., a fair, carnival, farmers market), a spectator sport (e.g.,
beach volleyball, hockey, basketball, surfing competition), an athletic event (e.g., races, runs), a
community event (e.g., beach/park clean up, sandcastle building, a hike or nature walk); parades;
and Mixed Free Speech Events . City-partnered events of any nature shall not be included in this
definition.
D-3
“Event participants” means persons in attendance at an event, including spectators,
vendors, event staff, City staff, and all others present for the purpose of the event. Any
D-4
persons in attendance at an event for the purpose of protesting the event shall not be
considered event participants.
“Fair/carnival” means a traveling enterprise offering amusements, or a gathering of buyers
and sellers, held at a temporary location for one or more days.
“Free speech” means speech and expressive conduct protected by the First Amendment of
the United States Constitution or by Article 1, Section 2 of the California Constitution.
“Free Speech Special Event” or “Mixed Free Speech Special Event” means an event at which
the expression of free speech rights is the principal purpose of the event, and that satisfies
one or where free speech is entwinedmore of the following: (i) the event meets the threshold
attendance pursuant to Table 12.20.040-1; (ii) the event requires the use of amplified sound;
(iii) the event may interfere with commercial purposes .traffic or obstruct ingress or egress to
a property or structure; or (iv) the event will use any structure or equipment that requires a
health & safety inspection. Examples of Free Speech Special Events include a parade, , but
are not limited to: a protest, speech, or rally that requires traffic control; individual street
performers. A Mixed Free Speech Special Event is one that has a commercial component, or that
is open to the public for entertainment or cultural purposes; mixed free speech events are not
dependent on current events and require time and logistical support to organize; examples include
a circus, outdoor theater, art fair, or other organized art or entertainment.
“Indigent person” means: (1) a person who is receiving benefits pursuant to the
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and State Supplemental Payments (SSP) programs
(Sections 12200 to 12205, inclusive, of the California W elfare and Institutions Code), the
California W ork Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids Act (CalWORKs) program (Chapter
2, commencing with Section 11200 of Part 3 of Division 9 of the California Welfare and
Institutions Code), the Food Stamp program (7 U.S.C. Section 2011 et seq.) or Section
17000 of the Welfare and Institutions Code; (2) a person whose monthly income is 125%
or less of the current monthly poverty line annually established by the Secretary of Health
and Human Services pursuant to the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981, as
amended.
“Mission-aligned event” means an event (one-time, recurring, or annual) that takes place in
the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve and/or within the City trails system, and that is organized
and run by a nonprofit entity whose mission is aligned with the City’s goals of habitat and
sensitive species preservation and protection of the City’s open spaces. Examples include
nature hikes by the Sierra Club and the Boy Scouts of America.
Examples include nature hikes by the Sierra Club, and the Boy Scouts of America.
“Mixed Free Speech Special Event“ means an event that has both a free speech component
and a commercial component, or that is open to the public for entertainment or cul tural
purposes; Mixed Free Speech Special Events are not dependent on current events and
require time and logistical support to organize and include, but are not limited to: (i) a circus;
(ii) outdoor theater; (iii) an art fair.
“NCCP/HCP” means the March 2018 City of Rancho Palos Verdes Natural Community
Conservation Plan/Habitat Conservation Plan.
D-5
“Parade” means a public procession, typically celebrating a special day or event and
including marching bands and floats, in the public right-of-way.
“PVPLC” means the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy.
“Race/run” means an organized competitive event upon a public street, sidewalk, walkway,
or other publicly owned property including City parks, in which persons participate by
walking, running, riding a bicycle or horse, or operating a wheelchair.
“Recurring event” means an event that will occur repeatedly within a one-year period.
D-6
“Special Event” shall meanincludes, but is not limited to any of the following one-time or
recurring or annual events:
(i) A commercial event that requires(e.g., a fair, carnival, farmers market).
(ii) A spectator sport (e.g., beach volleyball, hockey, basketball, surfing competition).
(iii) Any organized athletic event (e.g., races, runs, soccer games, baseball games).
(iv) A community event (e.g., beach/park clean up, sandcastle building contest , a
hike or nature walk).
(iv) Parades.
(v) Any Mixed Free Speech Special Event Permit, as.
(vi) Any event above the attendance threshold provided for in Section 12.20.40. Small
Special Events shall be eventsTable 12.20.040-1.
(vii) Any event that: (a) will use amplified sound, (b) may interfere with an anticipated
attendance of 150 or fewer people. Large Special Events shall be events wi th an
anticipated attendance of more than 150 peopletraffic, ingress, or egress; or (3) will use
structures or equipment that require health & safety inspections.
“Sponsor” means the person or group responsible for or organizing the special event. Special
Event.
“Spontaneous event” means a Free Speech Event occasioned by news or events
coming into public knowledge 4 business days or fewer prior to such event.
“Task Force” means the Special Events Task Force as constituted by this code.
“Transportation management/parking plan” means a plan developed by the special event
sponsor to identify and mitigate traffic/parking impacts associated with a special event.
12.20.040 Special Event Permit required.
A . Special Events on public property require a Special Event Permit must be obtained
from the City if the proposed event meets any of the following criteria (also see Table, pursuant
to Sections 12.20.040-1):
A. A Covered Event060 and 12.20.070. [A1] All permits will be in compliance with an
anticipated participation requiring a permit for the location of the event provided for in Table
12.20.040-1, belowall City Council approved documents and regulations.
D-7
B. Any event, including a Free Speech Special Event, which may impede, obstruct, impair
or interfere with the free use of any public street, highway, alley, sidewalk, or other public
way, or with an anticipated participation requiring a permit for the location of the event
provided for in Table 12.20.040-1, below.
C. Any event, including a B. Free Speech Special Event, which involves any activity or
event on public property that requires the placement of a tent, canopy, or other
temporary structure if that placement requires a permit from the City’s Fire
Department or Building and Safety Division.
D. Any event, includingEvents on public property require a Free Speech Special
Event, which will use amplified sound.
E. All events, whether requiring a Permit or not, must comply with the attendance
limitations at the particular location, in accordance with Table 12.20.040 -1.
F. Special Event Permits shall be subject to th e permitting provisions of Section
12.20.060 and 12.20.070. Free Speech Special Events and shall be subject to the alternative
permitting provisions of Section 12.20.080. All permits will be in compliance with all
City Council approved documents and regulations.
D-8
Table 12.20.040-1
Location
Special Event Permit (12.20.040;
12.20.060; 12.20.070)
Free Speech
Special Event
(12.20.040;
12.20.080)
Maximum
Attendan
ce (all
events)
Public right-of- way
Perm itPermits are required when
-- 100 people; for all events at locations 1 through 7 that meet
the anticipated attendance indicated, and/or
-- for all events that (a) use amplified sound; or
--, (b) may interfere with traffic, ingress/, or egress; or
-- (3) will use structures that require health & safety
inspections.
Perm it required
when
-- 500 people; or
-- am plified sound;
or
-- m ay interfere
with traffic,
ingress/egress; or -- structures that require health & safety inspections
N/A
1. Public right-of-way 100 300 N/A
2. Civic Center
(Upper Point Vicente
Park/ City Hall)
100 300 500
3. Hesse Park 100 300 500
Civic Center (Upper4.
Lower Point Vicente
Park/ City Hall
(Vicente Park
Interpretive Center
outside of Preserve)
Perm it required when
-- 30 people; or
-- am plified sound; or
-- m ay interfere with traffic, ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health & safety
inspections100
Perm it required
when
-- 300 people; or
-- am plified sound;
or
-- m ay interfere
with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that
require health &
safety inspections
1000500
for Free
Speech
Events
500 for all
other
Special
Events
5. Robert Ryan Park 75 150 200
6. Ladera Linda Park 50 50 200
7. Eastview Park 50 50 200
Special limitations for the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
8. Palos Verdes
Nature Preserve:
Hikes, nature walks,
and park clean-ups as
permitted under the
Maximum event/group attendance: 20 people
Not a permissible
use in the Preserve
20
D-9
Location
Special Event Permit (12.20.040;
12.20.060; 12.20.070)
Free Speech
Special Event
(12.20.040;
12.20.080)
Maximum
Attendan
ce (all
events)
NCCP/HCP. No other
events are permitted.
Hesse Park
Perm it required when
-- 30 people; or
--Permits may be required for Free Speech Special Events at
locations 9 through 15 that are likely to meet the attendance
thresholds as indicated below.
No events are permitted at these locations that (a) exceed the
attendance threshold; (b) use amplified sound; or
--, (c) may interfere with traffic, ingress/ or egress; or
-- (d) use structures that require health & safety inspections.
Perm it required
when
-- 300 people; or
-- am plified sound;
or
-- m ay interfere
with traffic,
ingress/egress; or -- structures that require health & safety inspections
500
9. Del Cerro Park Maximum event/group attendance: 50 people. 50 200 for
Free
Speech
Events
only
50 for all
other
events/gr
oups
Lower Point Vicente
Park (Vicente Park
Interpretive Center)10.
Frank S. Vanderlip
Park
Perm itNo permit required when.
-- 30Maximum event/group attendance: 50
people; or
-- am plified sound; or
-- m ay interfere with traffic, ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health & safety
inspections.
Perm it required
when
-- 300 people; or
-- am plified sound;
or
-- m ay
interfere
with
traffic,
ingress/e
gress; or
-- structures that
require health &
safety inspections50
1000200
for Free
Speech
Events
only
50050 for
all other
Special
Eventsev
ents/grou
ps.
11. Abalone Cove
picnic area and
preschool/lifeguard
area
Maximum event/group attendance:50 people. 50 200 for
Free
Speech
Events
only
50 for all
other
events/gr
oups
Perm it required
D-10
Location
Special Event Permit (12.20.040;
12.20.060; 12.20.070)
Free Speech
Special Event
(12.20.040;
12.20.080)
Maximum
Attendan
ce (all
events)
Robert12. Marilyn
Ryan Sunset Park
Perm itNo permit required when.
-- 20Maximum event/group attendance: 50
people; or
-- am plified sound; or
-- m ay interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health & safety
inspections.
when
-- 50 people; or
-- am plified sound;
or
-- m ay interfere
with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that
require health &
safety inspections
200200
for Free
Speech
Events
only
50 for all
other
events/gr
oups
13. Founders Park Maximum event/group attendance: 50 people. 50 200 for
Free
Speech
Events
only
50 for all
other
events/gr
oups
14. Grandview Park No permit required.
Maximum event/group attendance: 50 people.
50 200 for
Free
Speech
Events
only
50 for all
other
events/gr
oups
Ladera Linda15.
Pelican Cove Park
Perm itNo permit required when.
--Maximum event/group attendance: 20
people; or
-- am plified sound; or
-- m ay interfere with traffic, ingress/egress; or.
Perm it required
when
-- 50 people; or
-- am plified sound;
or
-- m ay interfere with
traffic,
ingress/egress; or
200200
for Free
Speech
Events
only
20 for all
other
events/gr
oups
D-11
Location
Special Event (12.20.040;
12.20.060; 12.20.070)
Free Speech Special Event
(12.20.040; 12.20.080)
M aximum
Attendance (all
events)
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Eastview
Park
Perm it required when
-- 20 people; or
-- am plified sound; or
-- m ay interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Perm it required when
-- 50 people; or
-- am plified sound; or
-- m ay interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200
Palos
Verdes
Nature
Preserv
e
No perm it required. Maxim um
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- am plified sound; or
-- m ay interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Perm it required when event
attendance 20 or m ore people
No events allowed if:
-- am plified sound; or
-- m ay interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
40 for Free
Speech Events
20 for all other
events/groups
Del Cerro
Park
No perm it required. Maxim um
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- am plified sound; or
-- m ay interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Perm it required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if :
-- am plified sound; or
-- m ay interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
Frank S.
Vanderlip
Park
No perm it required. Maxim um
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- am plified sound; or
-- m ay interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Perm it required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- am plified sound; or
-- m ay interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups.
Abalone
Cove
No perm it required. Maxim um
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
Perm it required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
D-12
Location
Special Event (12.20.040;
12.20.060; 12.20.070)
Free Speech Special Event
(12.20.040; 12.20.080)
M aximum
Attendance (all
events)
-- attendance over 20; or
-- am plified sound; or
-- m ay interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
-- am plified sound; or
-- m ay interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
events/groups
Marilyn
Ryan
Sunset
Park
No perm it required. Maxim um
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- am plified sound; or
-- m ay interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Perm it required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- am plified sound; or
-- m ay interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
Founders
Park
No perm it required. Maxim um
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- am plified sound; or
-- m ay interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Perm it required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- am plified sound; or
-- m ay interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
Grandvie
w Park
No perm it required. Maxim um
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- am plified sound; or
-- m ay interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Perm it required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- am plified sound; or
-- m ay interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
Pelican
Cove Park
No perm it required. Maxim um
event/group attendance: 20 people.
No events allowed if:
-- attendance over 20; or
-- am plified sound; or
-- m ay interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
Perm it required when event
attendance 50 people or more
No events allowed if:
-- am plified sound; or
-- m ay interfere with traffic,
ingress/egress; or
-- structures that require health &
safety inspections
200 for Free
Speech Events
only
20 for all other
events/groups
D-13
12.20.050 Exemptions and waivers.
A. Special Events with an anticipated participation below the thresholds indicated in Table
12.20.040-1 shall not require a Special Event Permit.
B. A. City-partnered events do not require Special Event Permits.; however, they
will still need to be in compliance with all City Council approved documents and
regulations[A2].
C. B. Permits for mission-aligned events, as well as for nonprofit and educational
events, may be subject to reduced or waived fees, as determined by City Council
resolution.
C. The PVPLC shall follow the guidelines for Permissive Activity Request for events or
activities as defined in the Management Agreement with the City (i.e., events over
100 people). For all other events or activities that comply with the definition of
Permissive Activity and are consistent with the NCCP/HCP, the PVPLC is not
required to obtain a permit nor pay a fee.
12.20.060 Special Event Permit application.
A. A. Special Event Permit Application Required. An application must be submitted to
the City by the Special Event Sponsor along with an application fee and an
administrative review fee (if applicable) in the amounts established by City Council
resolution.
An Indigent Person who is unable to pay the application fee due to such indigence
may not be required to pay the fee in accordance with administrative regulations or
guidelines adopted pursuant to this chapter. Application for indigent status shall be
made at the time of submission of the permit application and shall be accompanied
by such relevant information and documentation as may, in the opinion of the Task
Force Chairperson, be reasonably necessary to verify such status.
B. B. Application Form and Contents. An application for a Special Event Permit
shall be on a City form and signed by the Applicant who is at least 18 years of age, and
contain all of the following information:
1. 1. The name, address, email address, and daytime telephone number of
each of the following:
a. a. The Applicant and the Sponsor, if different from the Applicant
(also include evening telephone number),
D-14
b. b. An alternate person to contact if an emergency arises and the
Applicant is unavailable (also include evening telephone number),
c. c. If applicable: the president, chair or other head of the sponsor
organization; nonprofit documentation (also include written
documentation of the authority under which the Applicant is applying on
behalf of the organization), and
d. d. The person who will be present and in charge of the event on
the day of the event and their contact information during the event.
D-15
2. 2. The requested event date, including the dates and times for set-up
and clean-up, and the starting and finishing time of the event. Also include
two alternative dates.
3. 3. The estimated number of participants.
4. 4. A site plan identifying the proposed event and staging locations,
including specific street closures or street routes, if any, or park area
requested and parking areas.
5. 5. A site map showing emergency exit routes.
6. 6. Any City equipment or personnel requested.
7. 7. A description of the planned event.
8. 8. A description of how the event will be promoted and any prior
history of promotions for similar events, including references.
9. 9. The proposed distribution or sale of any food or beverage, including
alcoholic beverages. If alcoholic beverages are included, provide all
applicable licenses and registrations allowing the sale of alcoholic
beverages at the event.
10. 10. The type and estimated number of vehicles, animals, or structures
that will be used.
11. 11. A description and location of any sound amplification equipment
proposed to be used.
D-16
12. 12. The location of electrical generators, stages, tents, canopies,
cooking apparatus and lights.
13. 13. The location of mechanical rides, jump houses, or other amusement
attractions.
14. 14. The location of any water, first aid, or comfort station(s) to be
provided.
15. 15. For each application for a parade: (i) the time when the units of the
parade will begin to assemble, (ii) the proposed assembly point for the
parade, (iii) the proposed parade route, (iv) the interval space to be
maintained between units of the parade, and (v) the number, type and size
of floats or other vehicles.
D-17
16. 16. For a commercial or Mixed Free Speech event, a layout showing the
locations of booths, stages, audience, tables and chairs, food court, portable
bathrooms, emergency exits.
17. 17. A preliminary security plan and any monitors to be employed during the
event.
18. 18. Any other information which the Task Force reasonably requires to
evaluate the particular Special Event Permit application. In addition, the Task
Force can waive application requirements that the Task Force determines are
inapplicable.
19. 19. A parking and transportation plan as deemed necessary by the Task
Force, based on the anticipated number of participants and the availability of
parking at the proposed location.
20. 20. For Recurring Events, the Applicant shall also include the following
information:
i. i. The frequency of the proposed recurring event, including if
available a schedule with proposed dates and times. Proposed
schedules may be submitted as soon as available, but no later than
15 days prior to the start of the events.
ii. ii. The minimum and maximum number of participants for each
event.
12.20.070 Processing of Special Event Permit applications.
Special Event Permits will be processed based on the following:
D-18
A. A. Submission timelines.
1. 1. Special Events. An application for a Special Event Permit shall be filed
at least 30 days prior to the date of a proposed Small Special Event with
anticipated attendance smaller than 100 participants, and at least 90 days
prior to the date of a proposed Large Special Event. with anticipated
attendance over 100 participants.
2. 2. Hikes and nature walks. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in
Subsection A.1, above, Special Event Permit applications for hikes and
nature walks in the Preserve or any of the City’s trails may be submitted 15
days prior to the proposed event.
3. 3. Recurring Special Event Permits. Notwithstanding anything to the
contrary in Subsection A.1, above, a Special Event Permit application for
recurring events must be submitted no later than 90 days prior to the start
of the Recurring Special Events. These permits shall only authorize the
same
D-19
type of recurring event during the year, and is not intended to be a blanket event
permit for the Applicant or Sponsor.
4. 4. Requested dates and times at specific locations shall be reserved on
a first come first served basis. If the date or time requested is not available,
the Chairperson shall inform the applicant within 5 business days and shall
suggest alternative dates and times. Applications for events occurring more
than 12 months from the date of the application shall not be accepted.
B. B. The Task Force or Chairperson shall meet with the Applicant or Sponsor to
review the application to determine whether additional information is required and
discuss applicable conditions and potential security fees.
C. C. The Task Force shall make a decision on the application, set any conditions
and fees, and issue the permit. For Large Special Events with anticipated attendance
up to 100 participants, a decision on the Special Event Permit shall be made by the
Task Force no later than 10 calendar days following the submission of a completed
application... For Small Special Events with anticipated attendance over 100
participants, a decision on the Special Event Permit shall be made by the Task Force
no later than 30 days following submission of a completed application.
D. D. In deciding whether to approve, or approve with conditions, the Task Force
shall make each of the following findings:
1. 1. The Special Event, as proposed, does not pose a threat to health and
safety.
2. 2. The use of sheriff and/or fire resources to support the event will not
deny reasonable sheriff and fire protection to the City.
3. 3. The Special Event will not adversely interfere with previously City-
approved and/or scheduled construction, maintenance or other activities.
D-20
4. 4. The Special Event will not adversely impact the health or safety of
surrounding properties; or the impacts can be significantly mitigated by way of
reasonable permit conditions. Adverse impacts include, but are not limited to,
noise, traffic, parking, trash, and damage to public property, infrastructure, or
facilities.
5. 5. There will be negligible adverse impact on the condition of parks and
open space areas; proposed mitigation by the event Sponsor will be
considered.
6. 6. The Special Event shall not adversely impede the public’s reasonable
use of City streets, sidewalks, walkways, trails, and City parks.
D-21
7. 7. The Special Event is in compliance with the attendance and other event
limitations as indicated in Table 12.20.040-1.
E. E. Conditions.
1. 1. The Task Force may include in a Special Event Permit reasonable
terms or conditions as to the time, place, and manner of the event, notice
requirements, compliance with health and sanitary regulations, emergency
services, security payment of the Special Event Permit fee, reimbursement of
direct expenses incurred by the City, and a clean-up/damage deposit.
2. 2. Additional permits or security fees may be required by other state or
federal agencies or federal, state, or local laws.
3. 3. In order to accommodate other concurrent events, the rights of abutting
owners and the needs of the public to use streets or parks, the conditions may
include, but not be limited to, reasonable adjustments in the date, time, route
or location of the proposed event; accommodations of pedestrian or vehicular
traffic using the street; accommodations of public access to City parks, the
Palos Verdes Nature Preserve, and the City’s trails; and limitations on the
duration of the event.
4. 4. A notice issued by the City for a Special Event Permit shall be mailed to
property owners located within a 500 foot radius of a fixed event site, a parade
route, or a run/race route describing the event and inviting the public to
comment. The Applicant shall cover the cost, including postage, for the notice.
The notice shall be mailed by first class mail at least 10 calendar days before
the date of a Small Event, and at least 20 calendar days before the date of a
Large Event.
5. 5. Conditions relating to the use of amplified sound to minimize the
interference with the quiet enjoyment of neighboring properties.
D-22
6. 6. Conditions relating to maintaining the public property in the same or
better condition after the Special Event. Conditions may address collection of
trash, access to rest facilities, prohibiting access to protected habitat, etc.
7. 7. The Task Force may require a Special Event Permit Sponsor to
reimburse the City for the cost of repairs or habitat remediation needed
because of the Special Event.
F. F. Recurring Events. The Special Events Task Force may require a trial period
before approving all planned events. In no case shall recurring events be authorized
for more than one year at the time of application.
D-23
G. G. An application for a Special Event Permit can be denied on any of the
following grounds:
1. 1. Applicant’s provision of false or misleading information;
2. 2. Conflict with other planned events in the area;
3. 3. Previous Special Event Permit violations by the Applicant or sponsor;
4. 4. Inability to make all the findings for approval set forth above;
5. 5. Exceeding special event attendance limits for a particular location; or
6. 6. The location or park site requested is not eligible for special events.
H. H. CEQA Review. The Task Force will designate a staff person knowledgeable
in the California Environmental Quality Act to perform an environmental review of the
proposed special event.
12.20.080 Free Speech Special Event Permit application.
A. A. The following application procedures apply to a Free Speech Special Event
only.
Parades and Mixed Free Speech Events shall be subject to the Special Event Permit
provisions of Section 12.20.040 through 12.20.070.
D-24
B. B. A Free Speech Special Event requires a Free Speech Special Event Permit
when:
1. 1. The proposed event may impede, obstruct, impair or interfere with the
free use of any public street, highway, alley, sidewalk, or other public right-of-
way, or with ingress or egress to the same; or
2. 2. The proposed event may exceed the maximum attendance without
permit for the location of the event provided for in Table 12.20.040-1.
3. 3. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this chapter, a Free
Speech Special Event Permit is not required for Spontaneous Events. The
Sponsor of a spontaneous event shall provide the Task Force with advance
notification to the extent practicable, as well as the following information: the
type of event; the date, time, and duration of the proposed event; the location
of the event and/or route, including which public spaces or public right-of-
ways may be obstructed or closed; and anticipated participation.
Spontaneous Events at particular locations may not be held that exceed the
maximum occupancy for that location, as provided for in Table 12.20.040-1.
C. C. A Free Speech Special Event application shall include the following
information:
D-25
1. 1. A description of the proposed event;
2. 2. The street or other public property and the specific area or areas
thereof to be utilized in connection with the proposed event;
3. 3. The manner in which the public property will be utilized;
4. 4. The date or dates and the specific times of the proposed event,
including set-up and tear-down;
5. 5. The name, address and telephone number of the sponsor of the
proposed event;
6. 6. The name, address and telephone number of the person or persons to
be contacted regarding the application or the permit.
7. 7. Anticipated participation, including any animals that may be in
attendance.
D. D. Timing of application. The Applicant shall file a complete application for a Free
Speech Special Event Permit with the Task Force Chairperson as soon as possible,
but no later than 5 business days before the proposed event. The Task Force shall
review the Free Speech Special Event Permit application to establish reasonable
conditions to address health and safety only, notification of the decision, and appeal
from the decision.
E. E. Task Force’s Decision. The Task Force shall render a decision in accordance
with the findings set forth herein within two business days following the filing of the
completed application.
D-26
1. 1. The event, as proposed, will not pose a threat to health and safety;
2. 2. The use of sheriff and/or fire resources to support the event will not
deny reasonable sheriff and fire protection to the City;
3. 3. The event will not interfere with previously City-approved and/or
scheduled construction or maintenance, or with a previously permitted special
event;
4. 4. No consideration was given to the message of the event, the content of
speech, the identity or associational relationships of the Applicant, or to any
assumptions or predictions as to the amount of hostility which may be aroused
in the public by the content of the speech or message conveyed by the event.
5. 5. The event is in compliance with the attendance and other limitations as
provided in Table 12.20.040-1.
D-27
6. 6. There will be minimal or no adverse impact on the condition of parks
and open space areas, proposed measures to mitigate any adverse impacts
shall be taken into consideration.
F. F. Notification of Decision. The Task Force Chairperson shall notify the Applicant
in writing (and orally, if possible) of the decision, including a statement of the reasons
for any conditions or the grounds for a denial. If a change in the time or location of the
proposed event would allow approval of the application, the Chairperson shall
propose an alternative to the Applicant. Any conditions shall be directed
G.. Applicant’s Acceptance. The Applicant shall notify the Chairperson in writing of their
acceptance forthwith after written notice of the decision. Once the Applicant submits a
written acceptance of the Task Force’s decision, the Free Speech Special Event
Permit shall be approved and the Chairperson shall notify the City Council and the
City Manager that the permit has been issued.
H. H. Free Speech Special Events will not be required to comply with any of the
following as a condition of receiving a permit:
1. 1. Any fee or charge required by the City.
2. 2. Any insurance or proof of insurance covering the Free Speech Event,
its organizers, or participants, including the requirements of Section 12.20.150.
3. 3. Any requirement of indemnification or agreement to hold harmless,
including the requirements of Section 12.20.140.
I. I. Appeal. Any decision relating to the issuance of a Free Speech Special
Events Permit may be appealed to the City Manager. The appeal must be in writing
and must be submitted to the City Manager’s Office within two business days of the
Task Force’s decision. The City Manager shall decide the appeal within one
business day. The City Manager’s decision shall be final.
D-28
J. J. Judicial Review. Decisions regarding a Free Speech Special Event Permit
are eligible for expedited judicial review pursuant to Section 1094.8 of the Code of
Civil Procedure.
12.20.090 Special Event Task Force.
A. A. A Special Event Task Force is hereby created to carry out the provisions of this
code relating to permits for Special Events, Free Speech Special Events, and Mixed
Free Speech Special Events (collectively, Special Events), is comprised of
representatives of City departments, including, but not limited to, the following
departments: Public Works, Community Development, and Parks and Recreation.
The Task Force may also invite representatives from other City departments, public
agencies, or community or neighborhood organizations to provide comments on
D-29
proposed special events. Examples of such agencies/organizations include, but are not
limited to the Los Angeles County Sheriff and the Los Angeles County Fire. The
Chairperson of the Task Force shall be a Department Director or the Deputy City
Manager, as designated by the City Manager. The Chairperson shall provide for
maintaining Task Force records, arranging meeting times and places, and issuing a
Special Event Permit on behalf of the Task Force.
B. B. The Special Event Task Force shall have the power to:
1. 1. Interpret and administer this code;
2. 2. Represent the City, in accordance with procedures adopted by the City
Manager, in discussions and in maintaining agreements with Applicant or
Sponsor;
3. 3. Coordinate with City departments and with other government agencies
for the provision of governmental services for such Special Events;
4. 4. Establish terms and conditions, appropriate security fees and deposits,
and the time(s), place and manner of the Special Event;
5. 5. Approve or deny Special Event Permits;
6. 6. Adopt policies for administering this code as necessary.
12.20.100 Special Event Permit fees and charges.
A. A. Special Event Permit fees and charges are established by resolution of the
City Council. The application fee must be submitted with the application. Other costs
for City services shall be invoiced to the Applicant no later than 10 calendar days after
the expiration date of the permit. The Applicant shall pay all fees and charges within
30 calendar days of invoice otherwise late fees shall apply.
B. B. In addition to the payment of any applicable non-refundable permit application
fees, all Applicants or sponsors shall be responsible for paying for all City
departmental, Los Angeles County Sheriff, or Los Angeles County Fire service
charges incurred in connection with or due to the permittee’s activities under the
permit.
12.20.110 Revocation.
D-30
A Special Event Permit can be revoked by the Task Force for any of the following reasons:
A. A. Failure to comply with any permitting requirements or conditions of approval;
B. B. Knowingly providing false, misleading, or fraudulent information;
D-31
C. C. Failing to pay required fees, charges, or deposits;
D. D. Failing to agree to the indemnification provisions or failing to provide proof of
insurance to the extent required; or
E. E. The event materially changes after a permit has been approved.
12.20.120 Enforcement.
A. A. Violations of this chapter shall be charged to the Applicant and/or Sponsor of
the event pursuant to Chapters 1.08 and 1.16 of this Code, as well as any other
remedies available to the City at law or equity.
B. B. In addition to the penalties provided for in Chapters 1.08 and 1.16 of this Code,
Sponsors, Applicants, or Participants of an event may be cited and/or ejected from
the public property for violations of this Chapter after notice and an opportunity to cure
the violation.
12.20.130 Appeal.
A. A. A decision regarding a Special Event Permit application may be appealed in
writing to the City Manager within 10 calendar days of the Task Force’s decision for
Large Special Events and within 5 calendar days of the Task Force’s decision for
Small Special Events.
B. B. The City Manager shall make a decision on the appeal within 10 calendar
days of receipt of the appeal for Large Special Events and within 5 calendar days of
receipt of the appeal for Small Special Events.
C. C. The decision of the City Manager shall be final, and is subject to judicial review
pursuant to Section 1094.5 and 1094.6 of the Code of Civil Procedure.
12.20.140 Hold harmless.
As a condition to the issuance of any permit under this chapter, the Applicant/Sponsor shall
agree to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City, its elected and appointed officials,
D-32
employees and agents, against losses and liabilities incurred from the conduct of the
permittee, or its officers, employees, and agents, or claims or liabilities caused by, or arising
out of any activities authorized by any such permit.
12.20.150 Insurance requirements for special events.
The Applicant shall provide general liability insurance naming the City, its elected and
appointed officials, employees, and agents, as an additional insured. Limits of coverage will
be determined by the City Attorney’s office at the time of application. Certificates of
insurance are to be submitted to the City for approval 14 calendar days prior to the day of
the event. Acceptability of insurance is subject to approval by the City’s Risk Manager. This
requirement does not apply to Free Speech Events.
D-33
of the event. Acceptability of insurance is subject to approval by the City’s Risk
Manager. This requirement does not apply to Free Speech Events.
SECTION 3. SEVERABILITY. If any section, subsection, subdivision, sentence,
clause, phrase, or portion of this Ordinance or the application thereof to any person or place,
is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of
competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remainder of this
Ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance,
and each and every section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion
thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, subdivisions,
sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions thereof be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 4. EFFECTIVE DATE. This ordinance shall be effective on the thirtieth
(30th) day after the day of its adoption.
SECTION 5. CERTIFICATION CERTIFICATION. The City Clerk shall certify to
the adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause the same to be posted in the manner
required by law.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED this ___ day of ________________ 2019.
Jerry V. Duhovic, Mayor
ATTEST:
Emily Colborn, City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES )
D-34
D-35
I, Emily Colborn, City Clerk of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, do hereby certify that
the whole number of members of the City Council of said City is five; that the foregoing
Ordinance No. , was duly and regularly adopted by the City Council of said
City at a regular meeting thereof held on and that the same was passed and adopted by
the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
______________________________
City Clerk
D-36
Chapter 12.16 - STREETS, PARKS AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES*[]
Sections:
Footnotes:
--- () ---
* Prior ordinance history: Ord. 134.
12.16.010 - Protection of flora, fauna and public buildings and structures.
No person other than authorized park employees or city agents or other authorized persons in the
performance of their duties shall cut, break, dig up, remove, or in any manner injure any plant, animal,
public building, structure or contents therein on any park or municipal property.
(Ord. 181 § 1 (part), 1984)
12.16.020 - Motorized vehicles.
No person shall park or operate any motorized vehicle in any park and/or recreational facility except
in designated areas, other than authorized park employees or city agents in performance of their duties.
(Ord. 181 § 1 (part), 1984)
12.16.030 - Hours of operation.
No person shall be or remain in any park or municipal building at any time between one hour after
sundown and one hour before sunrise, unless attending or participating in city authorized activities.
(Ord. 181 § 1 (part), 1984)
12.16.040 - Motorized or radio-controlled models.
No person shall operate any motorized or radio-controlled model in a park except in areas
designated for such use, or upon written authorization from the city manager or the city manager's
designee. In deciding whether to grant such authorization, the city manager or the city manager's
designee shall consider time of day, relative crowding of the area requested, factors of public safety,
availability of areas approved for such activities, and any other factor relevant to the welfare of those
utilizing park or recreational facilities.
(Ord. 181 § 1 (part), 1984)
12.16.045 - Aircraft.
No person shall land, release, take off in, or fly in any balloon designed to carry passengers,
helicopter, parasail, hang glider, or other aircraft from any city-owned land except in areas specifically set
aside therefore or with the express written permission from the city.
(Ord. 267 § 1, 1991)
E-1
12.16.050 - Dogs and pets.
No person may bring a dog or any other pet unless authorized by the city manager or the city
manager's designee, onto any park or portion of a park unless the animal is restrained by a substantial
chain or leash not exceeding six feet in length and is in the charge, care, custody and control of such
person. No person may bring a dog or any other pet unless authorized by the city manager or the city
manager's designee onto a golf course or designated play area under any circumstances.
(Ord. 181 § 1 (part), 1984)
12.16.060 - Littering.
No person shall throw, place or dispose of any refuse, garbage, waste paper, bottles or cans, in any
place in a park other than into a garbage can or other receptacle provided for that purpose.
(Ord. 181 § 1 (part), 1984)
12.16.070 - Fires.
No persons shall light or maintain any fire in any park area other than in stoves or fire circles
provided in special areas designated for those purposes, except upon written authorization from the city
manager or the city manager's designee. In deciding whether to grant such authorization, the city
manager or the city manager's designee shall consider the time of day, relative crowding of the area
requested, factors of public safety, availability of areas approved for such activities, and any other factor
relevant to the welfare of those utilizing parks or recreational facilities.
(Ord. 181 § 1 (part), 1984)
12.16.080 - Use of city parks, nature preserves and recreational facilities.
Any person who enters any park, nature preserve or recreational facility that is owned by the city
shall comply with all applicable city regulations and posted signs, including, without limitation, regulations
and signs regarding the use of public trails.
A. No person shall ride or drive or otherwise introduce any horse or other large domestic animal
within a city park, city-owned nature preserve or city-owned recreational facility except on trails
or areas that are designated by the city for equestrian use and in areas where automobiles and
other motorized vehicles expressly are allowed, unless expressly authorized in writing to do so
by the city manager or the city manager's designee.
B. No person shall ride or drive or otherwise introduce any bicycle or other similar unmotorized
wheeled device within a city park, city-owned nature preserve or city-owned recreational facility
except on trails or areas that are designated by the city for bicycle use and in areas where
automobiles and other motorized vehicles expressly are allowed, unless expressly authorized in
writing to do so by the city manager or the city manager's designee.
C. No person shall walk, jog, run or otherwise utilize any city park, city-owned nature preserve or
city-owned recreational facility except on trails or areas that are designated by the city for such
use and in areas where automobiles and other motorized vehicles expressly are allowed, unless
expressly authorized in writing to do so by the city manager or the city manager's designee.
D. In deciding whether to grant such authorization for use pursuant to subsections A, B or C of this
section, the city manager or the city manager's designee shall consider time of day, relative
crowding of the area requested, factors of public safety, availability of areas approved for such
E-2
activities, impact of such activities upon sensitive habitat, and any other factor relevant to the
welfare of those utilizing city parks or city-owned nature preserves or recreational facilities.
(Ord. 421 § 1, 2005: Ord. 181 § 1 (part), 1984)
12.16.090 - Closed areas.
When necessary for the protection of the public interest, health, welfare, or safety, the city manager
or the city manager's designee shall have the authority to close from public access any city park or
portion thereof on a temporary or permanent basis. No person shall enter or remain in or upon areas
posted as closed.
(Ord. 181 § 1 (part), 1984)
12.16.100 - Nudity.
A. No person shall appear, bathe, sunbathe, walk or be in any public park, street, right-of-way,
playground, beach or the waters adjacent thereto, or any other public place or public
accommodation, or in any place open to the public (with or without the admission of an admission
fee), in such a manner that the genitals, vulva, pubis, pubic symphysis, pubic hair, buttocks, natal
cleft, perineum, anus, anal region, or pubic region of any person, or any portion of the breast at or
below the upper edge of the areola thereof of any female person, is exposed to public view or is not
covered by an opaque covering.
B. This section shall not apply to:
1. Any child under ten years of age;
2. Any live theatrical performance in a theater, auditorium or other similar building devoted to
theatrical performances located on public land; or
3. Any acts prohibited, or the prohibition of which is preempted, by any provision of state law.
(Ord. 301 § 1, 1994)
12.16.110 - Hunting prohibited.
No person shall, by any means, hunt any animal, fowl, fish, amphibian, or reptile on city property
unless expressly authorized by the city. For the purposes of this section, "hunt" shall mean stalk, pursue,
catch, capture, kill, or attempt to stalk, pursue, catch, capture or kill.
(Ord. 364 § 1, 2001)
12.16.120 - Skateboards, roller skates, inline skates, scooters and similar wheeled devices prohibited on
public property.
A. No person shall, and it shall constitute a public nuisance for any person to, operate, ride, propel, or
coast any skateboard or scooter, or utilize roller skates, inline skates or any similar unmotorized
wheeled device having wheels less than six inches in diameter, upon any public street, sidewalk,
alley, or roadway within the city, where such public street, sidewalk, alley, or way is designated by
resolution of the city council as closed to such activities and where notice of such prohibition has
been posted and is clearly visible in the immediate vicinity where such activity is prohibited.
B. No person shall, and it shall constitute a public nuisance for any person to, operate, ride, propel, or
coast any skateboard or scooter, or utilize roller skates, inline skates or any similar motorized or
E-3
unmotorized wheeled device having wheels less than six inches in diameter, upon any public park or
other public property within any zone in the city, where such public property is designated by
resolution of the city council as closed to such activities and where notice of such prohibition has
been posted and is clearly visible at a minimum of two entrances to the prohibited area or in the
immediate vicinity of the area where such activity is prohibited.
C. The notices required by subsections A and B of this section shall be in substantially the following
form:
PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF SECTION 12.16.120 OF THE RANCHO PALOS VERDES
MUNICIPAL CODE, NO SKATEBOARDS, ROLLER SKATES, INLINE SKATES, OR SCOOTERS
ARE PERMITTED.
D. This section shall not apply to persons participating in any city-sponsored program, event or class in
which use of the self-powered wheeled devices described herein are specifically authorized,
permitted or required.
E. Skateboarding on Public Property. Persons riding on skateboards on public roadways, public
sidewalks, public parking lots and other public property shall comply with the following requirements
and restrictions:
1. Skateboarding in the Upright Position. Persons riding on skateboards shall do so only in the
upright, standing position. Using, pushing, propelling or riding on a skateboard in a sitting,
prone, kneeling or lying position is prohibited.
2. Traffic Controls. Persons riding on skateboards on public roadways shall obey all speed limits,
stop signs, signal lights, and other traffic controls that govern the use of the public rights-of-way.
3. Yielding to Traffic in Same Direction. Persons riding on skateboards on public roadways shall
ride close to the far-right edge of the roadway, and shall yield to vehicles approaching from the
rear by moving to the right curb or shoulder of the roadway.
4. Uncontrolled Intersections. When approaching an uncontrolled intersection, persons riding
skateboards on public roadways or public sidewalks shall dismount from the skateboard and
walk across the intersection taking due care to yield to vehicles that are so near as to present a
hazard.
5. Prudent Operation. It shall constitute a public nuisance for any person to ride or propel a
skateboard upon a roadway at a speed greater than is, or in a manner other than is, reasonable
or prudent having due regard for weather, visibility, the traffic on, and the grade, surface and
width of, the roadway, and in no event at a speed or in a manner that demonstrates a wanton
disregard for the safety of other persons or property.
6. Attaching to or Towing by Vehicle. A person operating a skateboard shall not attach or "skitch"
the same or himself or herself to any motor vehicle on the roadway. In addition, a person shall
not knowingly drive a motor vehicle that is towing a person riding upon a skateboard.
F. Penalty for Violations. It shall be unlawful for any person to violate or fail to comply with the
provisions of this section. Any person violating the provisions of this section shall be guilty of an
infraction and shall be subject to fines, as established by the city council.
(Ord. 371 § 2, 2001)
(Ord. No. 571, § 1, 7-21-15)
12.16.130 - Reckless use of trails within the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve prohibited.
It shall constitute a public nuisance for any person, including pedestrians, equestrians and bicyclists,
to use any trail within the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve ("the preserve") in a reckless manner that
E-4
demonstrates a wanton disregard for the safety of other human beings or animals or causes injury or
harm to others.
(Ord. 476 § 1, 2008)
12.16.140 - Overnight camping within the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve prohibited.
No person shall camp within the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve. For the purposes of this section,
"camp" shall mean to remain on site overnight, whether entirely out of doors or utilizing an enclosed or
semi-enclosed temporary accommodation, including but not limited to, a tent, tarp, canopy, trailer,
recreational vehicle, passenger car or truck.
(Ord. No. 530, § 1, 1-17-12)
12.16.150 - Abandonment of animals prohibited.
No person shall willfully abandon any animal on any city-owned property. For the purposes of this
section, "willfully abandon" shall not include the release or rehabilitation and release of native California
wildlife by persons or agencies so authorized pursuant to state law or regulations of the California
Department of Fish and Game.
(Ord. No. 530, § 2, 1-17-12)
E-5
City of Rancho Palos Verdes – Park Use General Rules
Use of City parklands for recreation and picnics is available to the public on a first come,
first served basis. No fee is required for such use. Contact park supervisors regarding
use of ball fields at Hesse Park, Ryan Park, and Ladera Linda.
The following rules are applicable to use of all park grounds:
1) Motorized vehicles are prohibited on park grounds for any reason, including
beverage and food trucks, except as authorized or required by law.
2) Bicycling, skateboarding, roller skating, rollerblading or use of like equipment is
prohibited on park grounds except on trails or other areas designated for bicycle
use.
3) All trash must be placed in the proper receptacles.
4) Amplified sound is prohibited.
5) Smoking is prohibited in all City facilities except within a designated smoking
area.
6) Cooking is restricted to park provided barbecues.
7) Canopies, tents and gazebos, carnival rides, pillow bounces, pony rides,
generators, and like equipment are prohibited on park grounds.
8) Dogs must be kept on a leash not exceeding six feet in length.
9) Dogs are prohibited on beaches.
10) Destruction, removal, cutting, or picking of vegetation, and damage to City
equipment or property are prohibited.
11) Electrical outlets and/or water hookups cannot be provided unless patron has
rented facility.
12) Picnics may not be moved indoors in case of inclement weather unless the
facility has been previously rented and payment has been made.
13) Golfing is prohibited.
14) Activities such as parachuting, parasailing, and hang gliding are prohibited.
15) Operation of drones and remote controlled aircraft, cars, gliders, model rockets,
etc. is prohibited on park grounds except in areas designated for such use.
16) Commercial photography and videography are permitted only when photos and
videos are for non-commercial use, no props are being used, and the activity
lasts no longer than 45 minutes.
F-1