Outdoor Festival Permit

Application Timeline & Process

The application and approval process for an Outdoor Festival is a multi-step process that requires 90 days to complete.

Application for License & Fees

90 days or more prior to the planned event:

Environmental Review

Upon receipt of the application:

  • The Tax Collector will forward the application to the Planning Division of the Development Services Department.
  • The Planning Division will review the application to determine whether it is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act as a minor temporary use of land.
  • If a determination is made that the event is not exempt, Tax Collector shall deny application.
  • If a determination is made that the event is exempt, application processing shall continue.

Timeline for Public Hearing, Investigation & Reports

The Tax Collector shall request the Board of Supervisors to set a time and date for a public hearing. Between 30 to 60 days after receiving the request for a public hearing, the Clerk of the Board shall set a date for the public hearing.

At least 10 days prior to the public hearing:

  • The Clerk of the Board shall notify the applicant that a public hearing has been scheduled.
  • The Clerk of the Board shall publish a notice of the public hearing.
  • The Clerk of the Board shall notify the applicant that a public hearing has been scheduled.
  • The Clerk of the Board shall notify area neighbors of the date of the public hearing
  • The Clerk of the Board shall notify the following departments/agencies of the date of the public hearing: Sheriff, Fire, CHP, Public Health, Development Services, and Air Quality Control.

Prior to the time set for the hearing:

  • The departments listed shall investigate the matter and report to the Board of Supervisors no later than the time set for the hearing.

Hearing

On the public hearing date:

  • The Board shall consider documentary and testimonial evidence before granting a license. The Board may also impose conditions and security to guarantee that conditions will be met.

Issuance of License

The Tax Collector shall collect a license fee of $150 per day for each day the festival is schedule and shall issue a license to the applicant for the specific location and days for which the festival is authorized. Note: Non-profit organizations shall be exempt from paying this fee, per Butte County Code Section 12-30.

Exemption from Application & Fee Payments

Non-profit organizations shall be exempt from paying the application and license fees provided for in this code section provided.