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Tuesday, Jun 30, 2026

Do you need a city or county permit to have a block party?

Brandy Ruiz, El Paso Matters
yes

Residents who want to hold block parties, parades or special events that require street closures or use of public space must obtain a special event permit from the city or county of El Paso.

For events lasting 24 hours or less, city applications must be submitted between 30 days and one year before the event, according to the city’s website. Applicants must provide notice to affected businesses or residents, a traffic control plan and a site plan.

Additional permits or documents may be required, including a Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission temporary event permit, authorization letters or a streetcar application if the event blocks a streetcar route.

Applicants pay about $138 in fees, plus city services costs.

El Paso County requires applications at least 30 days in advance. Additional permits are required if alcohol is served or food is sold. Organizers pay cleanup and related costs. The application fee is $75.

This fact brief is responsive to conversations such as this one.

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