If your organization is planning a public or private event, a Special Event Permit is required. This permit ensures the event complies with state and local laws. If alcohol will be served or sold, please ensure the event complies with applicable state and local laws.
The information below outlines who is eligible to apply, what documentation is required, and what to expect during the application process. Please review all requirements carefully before submitting your application.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a Special Event Permit under Colorado law (C.R.S. 44-5-102), the applicant must be one of the following types of organizations:
- Nonprofit Organization
- Philanthropic Institution
- Religious Organization
- Charter or Chapter
- Athletic Organization
- Political Organization or Candidate
- National Organization or Society
- Municipally Owned Arts Facilities
If you're unsure, please email the City Clerks Office and we can help determine your eligibility.
Required Documents
A complete application must include all of the following:
- Proof of Eligibility: Certificate of good corporate standing issued by the Colorado Secretary of State within the last two years, OR if not incorporated, a NONPROFIT charter, OR if a political Candidate, copies of reports and statements filed with the Secretary of State.
- Property Use Authorization: A copy of the deed, lease, or written permission from the property owner allowing use of the location for the event.
- A Site Diagram: A clear diagram of the area to be licensed, including where alcohol will be stored, served, and consumed if applicable. The diagram may be a marked-up online map or a hand-drawn sketch, (no larger than 8 1/2" X 11") reflecting bars, walls, partitions, ingress, egress and dimensions. If the event is outdoors, please show how the area will be controlled (e.g., fencing, ropes, or other barriers).
- Application Fee: A $100 non-refundable fee to be made to the City of Centennial to process the application. City staff will reach out regarding payment once your application has been reviewed.
Special Event Permit Questions
These questions are included in the Special Event Permit online application:
- Describe the event (fundraiser, athletic event, auction, dinner, etc.).
- Explain in detail the nature of your organization, its function, and who benefits from its operations.
- Who or what organization will be the recipient of funds derived from this event?
- How many attendees are expected at this event?
- Describe the premises at which the event will take place.
- What type of security will be provided at this event? How many security personnel will be there?
- If this event is being held outdoors, how will the exterior boundaries of the premises be marked (i.e. roped, fenced, etc.)?
- What type of entertainment will be provided for this event, if any?
- What method will be used in checking identification for proper age of attendees?
- How will the conduct and level of intoxication of attendees be monitored, and by whom?
- Have volunteers or members of your organization been trained in the sale/service of alcohol beverages? If yes, what training have they received and by whom?
- What types of alternate beverages and food will be available?
- Does the applicant organization have current state and local sales tax licenses? Please provide those numbers.
- Explain how this event will be marketed, describing the kinds of advertising material to be distributed and the targeted recipients of such material.