Planning to hold a special event in the City of Biloxi? Here is what you need to know.

According to city ordinance (Ord. No. 2532), a special event is:

Assemblage. assembl y. activity. or special event shall mean any group of persons attending an event. all or any part of which includes an entertainment event, game, show, exhibition, activity, amusement, theatrical exhibition, display, music festival, rock concert, parade, run, race, special promotion, (radio remote. grand opening. sidewalk sale, etc.) or (a) any other similar gathering at a location in which such activity or special event exceeds the normal and customary use of such location. or (b) any other similar gathering in excess of those normally drawing upon health, sanitation, fire, police, transportation, utility, and other public services regularly provided in the city, or (c) any other similar gathering in excess of the number of persons normally using a place of business. community buildings (such as schools or churches), streets, parks, municipal beaches, or other public places so as to impact building capacity, grounds capacity, parking area, or traffic flow. Without regard to the number of persons participating. parade shall mean any march, demonstration, procession or motorcade consisting of persons, animals, or vehicles or a combination thereof upon the street. parks, or other public places within the city with an intent of attracting public attention that interferes with or has a tendency to interfere with the normal flow or regulation of vehicular or pedestrian traffic or both upon the streets, parks, or, other public places of the city.

These special events ordinances were created to give organizers expectations to follow and for the protection of the health, safety, and welfare of residents and visitors. It also helps to ensure that city resources are not overstrained.

The first step

Organizers should first contact the event coordinator at the Biloxi Police Department. Those interested in holding a special event in Biloxi should contact Capt. William Payne at bpdevents@biloxi.ms.us or 228-702-3115.

Here are the forms needed when considering holding a special event in the City of Biloxi.

Special Event Application (To be completed by organizer to determine type of event)	Click here for the fillable form.
Special Event Route Request Form (To be completed by organizer if road closure is requested)	Click here for the fillable form.
Amplified Sound Permit Request Form (To be completed if sound equipment will be used at event)	Click here for the fillable form.
Special Events Vendor Permit Request Form (To be completed by each vendor wanting to participate in event)	Click here for the fillable form.