City of Philadelphia Office of Special Events

About the Office of Special Events

The City of Philadelphia Office of Special Events (OSE) acts as the primary point of entry for anyone looking to host a public event in Philadelphia. 📅 Functioning as a ”one-stop shop,” the OSE coordinates the permitting process between event organizers and various city departments, including Police, Fire, Streets, and Sanitation. Located on the 15th floor of the One Parkway Building, this office ensures that festivals, parades, concerts, and demonstrations are conducted safely and in compliance with local regulations. 🚧 It is important to note that while OSE oversees the overall approval, specific services like electrical power or health inspections require separate clearances.

Permit Services and Functions

The OSE processes over 1,400 applications annually. Key services include:

• Event Permitting: Issuing approvals for street festivals, block parties, marathons, and parades.
• Demonstrations: Coordinating First Amendment activities and protests to ensure public safety and traffic control.
• Filming Requests: assisting production companies with permits for commercial filming and photography on public property.
• Street Closures: Facilitating the temporary closure of roads and rights-of-way for approved gatherings.

Security and Building Access

The Office of Special Events is located within the One Parkway Building, which maintains strict security protocols. 👮‍♂️ All visitors must enter through the main lobby and pass through security screening, including metal detectors and bag inspections. Valid photo identification is required to check in at the desk and receive a visitor badge for the elevators. Weapons of any kind, sharp objects, and pepper spray are strictly prohibited. Due to high volume, it is often recommended to submit applications via email or schedule an appointment for complex consultations.