Title
Consider adopting Ordinance No. 4001, approving an addition of Article V, "Special Events", to Chapter 14, "Amusements and Entertainments", of the City's Code of Ordinances; and take appropriate action.
Body
REQUESTOR
Community Services Department
BACKGROUND
The City of Farmers Branch is committed to fostering a connected community by supporting events that bring residents, businesses, visitors, and community organizations together. Community festivals, celebrations, and public gatherings strengthen neighborhood relationships, encourage civic engagement, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents.
Following the Council's direction during FY 2025-26 to improve operational efficiency and enhance customer service, the City began working toward establishing a centralized permitting process for special events. In response to the growing number and increasing complexity of events requiring coordination among multiple City departments, this streamlined process was presented to the City Council on July 15, 2025. The process proposed to improve interdepartmental collaboration, promote public safety, and ensure compliance with applicable City regulations. It will also provide a consistent review process for activities requiring multiple approvals, including temporary street closures, traffic control, large tent installations, food sales, temporary structures, and other operational requirements necessary to protect public health, safety, and welfare.
The proposed Special Event Permitting Program will establish a centralized application process that provides applicants with a single point of contact while coordinating reviews across all applicable City departments. This approach will reduce redundant reviews, improve interdepartmental communication, create a more predictable permitting process, and enhance overall efficiency in event approvals for both applicants and City staff.
As part of the City's FY 2025-2026 Fee Schedule, the City Council approve...
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