Mayor Bill de Blasio today announced that large events requiring a city events permit will be canceled through September 30th as the City works to prioritize open spaces for public use. The City will not issue a permit for any event in a location that interferes with the Open Streets or Open Restaurants program. Permits will also be denied for all events larger than one block, stage/video events that require amplification, street fairs, and events in parks that may unreasonably diminish public use. The City will refund or defer fees paid in connection with a denied permit.
"As New York has begun its reopening process, accessible open spaces are more important than ever," said Mayor Bill de Blasio. "While it pains me to call off some of the city's beloved events, our focus now must be the prioritization of city space for public use and the continuation of social distancing."
Events that do not conflict with Open Streets or Open Restaurant areas and are for locations one city block or smaller can still apply for a permit. The Mayor's Executive Order will require all permit applicants to outline their plan to reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19 at the event site and clean the event space both during and after the event. Applicants will be expected to address these concerns without utilizing City services, personnel and resources. Demonstrations, religious events, and press conferences will be exempt from the Executive Order and may receive permits. This Executive Order will help ensure social distancing, allow for greater public use of open space, address traffic flow concerns, and allocate City resources efficiently.
