Macon Magazine

90 maconmagazine.com | February/March 2025 further security needs and if the event is appropriate for the requested space. If approved, the applicant will receive an invoice by email with the space rental and charges for any other services required by Parks and Beautification and the Special Events Permit. The rental charge for event spaces can range from $100 for three hours (Washington Park) to $50 for three hours (a picnic pavilion at Amerson River Park), or higher for downtown parks and plazas. Depending on the size of the event, security or on-site personnel may be required by Parks and Beautification, the Macon-Bibb Fire Department, or Bibb County Sheriff's Office – which the applicant will have to pay for. If food is being served or sold then a permit from the Macon-Bibb Health Department is required. In addition, if road closures are requested then applicants must submit a one million dollar insurance policy from an A rated insurance company. Residents may think that having streets closed for events is no big deal, but Bragg Jam President Olivia Walter says it can become expensive. Organizations and individuals may change their mind when they weigh the costs and benefits - and ultimately, that's can be a good thing, from the county's perspective. Bragg Jam, the annual downtown concert crawl, features dozens of musical acts that perform at various venues. In the past, the organization has closed certain streets during the event. Street closures require a sign off from the Bibb Sheriff's Office and extra security provided by the Bibb County Sheriff's Office, which entails the event holder to pay overtime rates to sheriff's deputies. That was an expense the organization just couldn't justify anymore. Parks and Beautification is the first stop for planning events that want to use public roads, greenspaces, amplified sound, or alcohol. Extravaganza and the Macon Christmas Jolly Parade, but before the warmth of spring brings the rush of the Cherry Blossom and other events, gives Glisson and his team a moment to breathe. Last year alone, Glisson estimates that he headed up permitting for over 100 events. A special events permit is required if a group wants exclusive access to a park or greenspace. So, if a group wants to play frisbee at Washington Park but doesn't mind if other people are there too, then a special events permit isn't needed. If a group wants to put on a frisbee competition at Washington Park and requires sole use of the park, then a special events permit is required. Parks and Beautification is the first stop for planning events that want to use public roads, greenspaces, amplified sound, or alcohol. Depending on how large an event is, multiple county departments may need to sign off on the event. A group or person interested in having a public event would first fill out an application with Parks and Beautification with a $50 non-refundable application fee. In addition, the applicant should include a site plan for the area (for example, where drink stations, tents, and portable toilets will go), trash can needs, and a security plan. Once submitted, the office will look over the application and see if there are any

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