Ask the Director
I've heard something about needing a permit to use a park. Is that true?
Under most circumstances, no one needs to get a permit to use the City's parks. A permit is needed, however, if a person wants to: have an event with more than 100 people; charge a fee for people to attend an event; sell food, alcohol or merchandise, or to exclusively reserve an area within a park for an activity. Organizations that have Use Agreements with the City do not need permits. Examples include sports leagues and youth sport organizations.
What if I want to reserve a couple of tables for a family event?
Tables are usually occupied on a first-come, first-serve basis in our City parks. We recommend that you go early to the park and occupy the table or tables you want. If you want to reserve a specific area, you need to obtain a permit.
If I need a permit, how do I get one? How much does it cost?
If you want to have an event that you think might require a permit, call the City's Park Reservation Line at 652-4594 and ask for a facility use application. It is usually a good idea to apply for a permit sixty days before the scheduled event. Our facilities are very popular and reservations fill up quickly. The more time you allow to make the arrangements, the more likely you will be able to reserve the location you want. The amount of the fee depends on several factors including the location of your event, the type of event, whether it's for a commercial or nonprofit organization and whether or not you're a City resident.
How can I get information about Ventura's parks?
Visit the Park Reservations and Use web page for information about parks and recreational activities. You can also call the Parks office at 652-4550 and request a brochure listing all of the park locations. We hope you take advantage of our beautiful parks for your family activities this summer.
"Ask the Director" Questions:
- Some areas of Ventura's beaches are cleaned more frequently. Why?
- Where are the City beaches and how often are they cleaned?
- Are there volunteer groups which help out with beach maintenance?
- How can we prevent ocean water pollution?
- What is the latest news about fixing the bike path at Surfers Point?
- How does the City figure out when to trim trees and how do I contact the City to have this done?
- The City used to spray olive trees to prevent fruit from developing. What happened to this program?
- What is the neighborhood replanting program and how can I get involved?
- Do I need a permit to use a park?
- Reclaimed water - the other water source?
- My street has potholes and cracks. When will the City fix it?