Hosting a Special Event
Looking to host a special event in the community? We're glad to help!
For events that might spill out into the street or take over a community space, like a neighborhood block party or Alumni Weekend celebrations, the City of Osawatomie requires a Special Event Permit be submitted and approved by City Council at regular meetings. This ensures that event organizers have the resources and plans in place for a safe, fun, and successful event. Events requiring a permit are subject to the Event Operating Procedures and/or User Guide for FHT developed by the City of Osawatomie Tourism Committee and Trail Commission.
Download a Special Event Permit
--Download Event Operating Procedures--
Download a Trailhead Special Event Permit
--Download User Guide for Flint Hills Trail: Mile Zero--
Download a KDWP Trail Event Form (State of Kansas)
--(Download KDWP Event Regulations)--
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if my event requires a permit?
A: If your event is contained to your personal property or within another entity's private property, chances are you don't need a permit. However, if your event requires use of a public street or will limit free public access to a community space (like barricading park entrances to vehicle traffic), a Special Event Permit will be required. If you're still not sure, please give us a call!
Q: Is there a fee for permits?
A: No, there is currently no fee for submitting or obtaining a Special Event Permit.
Q: What about the Mile Zero trailhead? My group wants to organize a 5K later this year.
A: The Mile Zero Trailhead of the Flint Hills Trail State Park has two different permits depending on the length (distance) of your event. For events on the Osawatomie Reach portion of the trail (from the trailhead to just before the John Brown Highway crossing), the City of Osawatomie has a Trailhead Special Event Permit. For any events that cross the highway onto the State-controlled portion of the trail, the State of Kansas' Department of Wildlife and Parks has a separate required permit. Check the Events calendar on our home page for a look at upcoming events at Mile Zero.
Q: Do I have to get insurance for my event?
A: It's highly recommended that your group or organization has liability insurance in place before you apply for your Special Event Permit. The amount of coverage can vary depending on the size and scope of your event, but $1,000,000 is the usual coverage level for most events. If your event does not have liability coverage in place at the time of your permit application, City Council may not approve your request if they feel the liability risk is too high.
Q: How far in advance do I need to submit a permit?
A: The earlier the better! Permits should be submitted no less than 45 days before the event. City Council meets on the second and fourth Thursday of the month and event permits not submitted in a timely manner may not be included on the Council Agenda for approval in time. The Event Operating Procedures can help you plan ahead for a successful event!