Spring is here and warmer weather is just around the corner. As temperatures rise, more people venture outside to enjoy the Town of Castle Rock’s beautiful parks, open spaces and well-maintained recreation facilities. But, did you know, commercial use, exclusive use or activities that will impact other park users or general park operations require a permit or rental agreement? Learn what you need to know before scheduling your next program or event.

Commercial activities or services
All commercial activities or services in Town parks that provide a benefit to an individual, group or organization require a permit. A commercial activity permit provides licensed vendors the opportunity to sell food, nonalcoholic beverages and other services and goods at designated sites approved by the Town. Some examples include mobile food vendors, dog training, boot camps, running clubs, music classes and fitness classes.

Permits also ensure there are no conflicts with planned maintenance during the use of Town parks and facilities, and that adequate insurance coverage is in place.

Allow two weeks for application processing and approval. Permit cost varies by location. Commercial activity and services permit applications are available online at CRgov.com/ParkPermits. For more information about the permits, contact Tara McGraw at [email protected]  or 303-733-2260.

Commercial film and photography
Filming and photography for commercial purposes on public property or in parks also require a permit. Applicants must complete a permit application at least five days before the shoot (thirty days for large or more complex productions). Film and photography permit applications can be found online at CRgov.com/ParkPermits.

Special event permits
If you are planning to host an event for 50 people or more in any public Town location, please review the special events information available at CRgov.com/SpecialEvents under the “plan an event” tab. The first step for any event organizer is to fill out a Special Event Application. Applications for the upcoming year are generally accepted from early October through mid-November and reviewed by the Special Event Committee. Approvals are issued in early January. Special Event Applications for the 2023 event season are currently closed and will open in October for 2024 events.

Field and athletic rentals
The Parks and Recreation Department has more than 15 outdoor facilities, including fields, tennis courts, inline courts and trails, that are available for rent. For more information and to make a reservation, visit CRgov.com/AthleticRental.

Facility and venue rentals
Some Parks and Recreation venues are available for rent to individuals or outside groups for special events, meetings, races, weddings, concerts and other gatherings. A few of the facilities that may be available for rental include Town park pavilions, meeting/party rooms at the Miller Activity Complex and Recreation Center, and the Millhouse at Philip S. Miller Park. For details about rental options, pricing and availability, visit CRgov.com/VenueRental.

Learn more about Town parks and facilities at CRgov.com/ParksAndRec.

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Need to talk to the Town? Dial 720-896-TOWN (8696) to reach a menu for help with frequently asked questions or live assistance during business hours.