Imagine your street not just as a place for cars, but as a space where neighbors can truly connect. When we transform streets into shared spaces, amazing things happen. Block parties give neighbors a chance to relax, play, and interact with each other. When people are out and about and using these spaces for activities, it creates a feeling of shared ownership and responsibility. Everyone feels more invested in looking after these common areas. Transforming these areas into vibrant locations allows us to bring people together and enrich our public spaces to serve multiple purposes while making our neighborhoods more dynamic and inclusive for everyone.
Block parties are a great way to build community, have fun, and connect with your neighbors. When planning your block party, don’t go it alone! Recruit a few enthusiastic neighbors to help share the workload. This makes the process more fun and manageable.
Steps to Get Your Block Party Approved
Once you have a team of neighbors who are excited to help coordinate the event, you’ll need to prepare an application so we can review your plans and issue a permit. The approval process includes a few steps, which are described in the following sections.
We recommend:
- Planning your block party for a late afternoon or early evening on a weekend.
- Picking a time of year when the weather is likely to be favorable.
- Begin planning your event at least six months in advance of your intended date.
To be approved, your application must include the following:
- Completed Special Event Permit Application.
- Event Site Map showing the location of your block party and event details.
- Preliminary Traffic Control Plan. This plan outlines how you will safely block off the street.
- You can use the pre-approved block party traffic control plan (TC-340) if your event meets these criteria:
- Fewer than 300 attendees
- Only one block is being closed
- Police are not required for crowd control
- You can use the pre-approved block party traffic control plan (TC-340) if your event meets these criteria:
Applications can be submitted:
- By email to PWPermits@cob.org
- In person at the Permit Center, located in City Hall, 210 Lottie Street.
Have questions about the application or permit requirements?
Visit our Special Event Permit Page for more information. If you need assistance, staff will be happy to provide guidance in the preparation of your application. You can contact the Permit Center by:
- Phone: 360-778-8300
- Email: permits@cob.org
Applications must be:
- Submitted a minimum of 2 months in advance of your event to ensure enough time to work through any issues that may arise.
After submission:
- Staff will respond within 7 business days of submittal with an initial review and feedback.
- This may include a request for changes or additional information needed to approve your application.
Tips for a Fun and Safe Block Party
To help your block party run smoothly, consider the following recommendations:
🧑🤝🧑Delegate Duties
- A little teamwork goes a long way toward a smooth and fun event! Avoid last-minute stress by assigning planning and day-of responsibilities in advance. Consider asking neighbors to help with:
- Designing and distributing invitation flyers
- Bringing folding tables, chairs, and canopies for shade
- Handling a neighborhood store run for last-minute supplies
- Volunteering their grills for shared cooking
🧹Clean As You Go
- Start by quickly cleaning the street to remove trash, pet waste, or other debris—this helps create a welcoming and safe space.
- During the party, station trash, recycling, and food waste bins in visible spots and encourage guests to use them. Keeping things tidy throughout the day makes cleanup easier later.
📋Set Rules
- Make sure everyone knows the basic safety guidelines and expectations. Set simple, easy-to-follow ground rules—like keeping music at a respectful volume, watching kids near grills or games, and being mindful of shared spaces. Clear communication helps everyone relax and enjoy.
🍽️Feed The Masses
- Invite neighbors to bring a dish to share—potlucks are a great way to showcase favorite recipes and build community. Make sure beverages are covered, and remember: alcohol cannot be consumed in public spaces without approval from the Liquor Control Board.
🛡️Stay Safe
- Some block party throwers have everyone sign a waiver to protect homeowners. If any pets are known to be reactive or prone to biting, keep them safely indoors during the event to mitigate any potential harm.
🎉Plan Activities
- Fun and silly games help break the ice and set the mood for your block party! Try hosting:
- Water balloon tosses
- Bicycle decorating contests
- Bolleyball or Badminton nets,
- And other outdoor games like Giant Jenga, hula hoops, cornhole, or sidewalk chalk zones.
- Having nametags available can also make introductions easier and help neighbors connect.
🛑Street Closure Supplies
- To safely close your residential street for a block party, you’ll need appropriate supplies such as barricades and signage to clearly mark the closure and keep vehicles out during the event. These items help ensure the safety of all participants and should be aligned with your Traffic Control Plan.
- Residents are responsible for providing these supplies, but there are a few creative ways to consider sourcing them:
- Reach out to nearby businesses to ask if they’d be willing to sponsor your event or loan barricades and signs.
- Check with local construction companies, landscaping services, or event rental shops—they may have extra equipment available.
- Coordinate with neighbors to pool resources or share contacts who may have access to supplies.
