Permits

COVID UPDATE: CITY PARK PERMITS  for small private gatherings are being processed. Social distancing and adhering to public health guidelines is required. Limited permits will  be issued  at this time (no electricity, trash pick-up, picnic tables, sanitizing/clean-up or restrooms). To request a permit please email bfarmer@syrgov.net or mnesci@syrgov.net.

Park buildings, community centers and senior centers remain closed to the public.
 
PERMIT APPLICATIONS

If individuals, organizations and agencies wish exclusive use of a park facility, they should obtain a permit. Upon receipt of your permit application and the applicable fees, and pending review, you will receive a permit. We ask that you please secure the location before planning the event. Please note that you should not assume you have use of an area until you have received the permit. 
 
You must have the permit with you on the day of the event. Separate permits will be required for each permitted location that you choose and will be billed accordingly. For example, if you wish to use the Lilly Pond and the Rose Garden at Thornden Park, two separate permits are required, and there will be two permit fees of $50.00 each per 4 hours. All checks payable to Commissioner of
Finance. Please note there will be a $20.00 service charge for returned checks.
 
OUTDOOR EVENTS
  • Picnic Permits are available April 15 - October 1. | Wedding Permits are available April 15 - October 31
  • Deadlines: Application deadlines are due a minimum of 30 days prior to requested date.
  • Fees: Permit Fee $50.00 for each spot per 4 hours  | Electrical Hook - Up $20.00, where outlets are available   
  • How to Apply: Applications can be downloaded, completed, and sent to: Syracuse Parks & Recreation, 412 Spencer Street, Syracuse, NY 13204, ATTN: Britney Farmer.
 
COMMUNITY EVENTS

If you or your organization are planning a community event - one that is open to the public - please put your request in writing AT LEAST SIX WEEKS PRIOR TO YOUR EVENT. Your request should include the park, date(s) and time(s) you want. Once your letter is received, it will be reviewed, and pending approval, there will be a meeting with the Special Events Division to review the Public
Programs Guidelines Handbook. Please note that the organization will be responsible for providing a certificate of liability insurance for $1 million that names the City of Syracuse as additionally insured. If other services are required, including police, electricians, etc., you may be responsible for covering those costs as well. Please do not assume you have the site until you have the permit. For more information or questions about community and outdoor events, please email
Britney Farmer at bfarmer@syrgov.net
 
ATHLETIC FIELDS

ATHLETIC FIELD PERMITS are now being processed provided they are in accordance with the current guidelines mandated by New York State, Onondaga County and the City of Syracuse. Failure to comply with the current guidelines will result in the denial or revocation of a permit.

Prior to applying, please be advised that due to Department staff shortages and financial restrictions, all field maintenance and facility sanitizing/cleaning will be the responsibility of the permit holder. This also includes the customary “start of the season” field preparation.

The following items must be received before the permit for athletic fields will be issued:

  • A written plan outlining how the permit holder intends to practice social distancing for the participants and spectators, at all times.
  • A written plan how the field area and facility, if necessary, will be cleaned and sanitized before and after each use. 
  • Updated certificate of liability insurance with the City of Syracuse Department of Parks, Recreation and Youth Programs listed as additionally insured for a minimum of $1,000,000.
  • $50.00 permit fee (per field) payment.

Permit applications, plans, and insurance can be emailed to Trevor Wallace at twallace@syrgov.net. If all items are received and approved, a link will be emailed for credit payment. A 2.75% non-refundable processing fee will be charged. Checks or money orders can also be made payable to: Commissioner of Finance and mailed to 412 Spencer Street, Syracuse, NY 13204, Attn: Athletic Field Permits

For more information about athletic field permits, please email twallace@syrgov.net. 
  • The official athletic season begins April to October, weather permitting. First preference is given to city schools and city groups.
  • Deadlines: Application deadlines are due 30 days prior to the requested date.
Fees for Outdoor Turf Fields (Sunnycrest Main & Practice and Valley Stadium):
  • Call for pricing ( 315.473.4330)
    Fees for Covered Burnet Turf
    • Call for pricing ( 315.473.4330)
    Fees for Grass Fields
    • Call for pricing ( 315.473.4330)
    How to Apply: Applications can be downloaded, completed and sent to: Syracuse Parks & Recreation, 412 Spencer Street, Syracuse, NY 13204, ATTN: Athletic Department

    Forms & Documents

      Application For City Park Permit
    Size (Kb): 1.3 MB
    Last Updated: 3/2/2021