“There are naïve questions, tedious questions, ill-phrased questions, questions put after inadequate self-criticism. But every question is a cry to understand the world. There is no such thing as a dumb question.” Carl Sagan
Q: Why does an individual or a group need to apply and pay for a permit to hold an event on property managed by the Town? Isn’t public property owned by everyone?
A: Technically, public property is owned by the government and considered to belong to the public at large, but that does not mean it is unregulated. Governments regulate the use of public property. In Estes Park permits are required for events that take place on streets or parks managed by the Town of Estes Park, including Bond Park, Performance Park, and George Hix Riverside Plaza — such as the Autumn Gold festival this weekend — and for walks and marathons that take place at a park or on a street owned by the Town of Estes Park, to ensure safety, proper organization, and minimal disruption to the community and natural environment, covering public festivals, races, concerts, and special uses of town spaces.
Permits must be applied for at least 120 days before a new event and at least 60 days before an existing, previously permitted event.
In addition to the permit fee, organizers must acquire event liability insurance, which names the Town as an additional insured party.
The policies and fees for events are published and can be reviewed online.