The Parks and Recreation Department issues permits for various events and activities held in public parks throughout the city. For a complete list of parks see our 2009 Reference Guide.   Please contact the Parks and Recreation Special Event and Permit Division, (816) 513-7675, before conducting business on park property.

Event Permits Download a list of park usage fees. The Loose Park Garden Center issues all permits for Loose Park (except photo shoots) including the Rose Garden, The Pavilion shelter and lake area rentals. Please call the Garden Center at (816) 784-5300 if you are interested in hosting an event in Loose Park.    To request park space for your event in all other parks, please fill out the event request form and e-mail it to shannon_dooley@kcmo.org or fax to (816) 513-7715.  For more information, call (816) 513-7675.  Call (816) 513-8931 for information about shelter house reservations and the show wagon (portable stage) rental. Your event may require more than just a Parks permit. Here is a listing of other City departments, types of permits they handle and phone numbers.

Photo/Film Permits A permit is required for still and video commercial shoots in all parks. Permit fees vary depending on location, size and type of shoot. Please complete the film permit request form and return via fax to (816) 513-7715. Call (816) 513-7527 or email heidi_downer@kcmo.org with questions. For more information about commercial filming in the Kansas City area, contact the Film Commission of Great Kansas City.

Athletic Field/Complex and Tennis Court Rental and Permits Open Walk-on Play - First come-first served, no reservation required, although priority is given for those holding a valid Field Use Permit, Tennis Court Rental, or Facility Use Agreement. Field Use Permit - Short-term reserved use of fields/complex/court. Fee required for permit. Tennis Court Rental – Short-term reserved use of tennis court. Fee required for permit. Facility Use Agreement - Long-term, reserved use of fields/complexes by leagues and organized sports organizations; insurance and fee required. This option can be with or without concessions.  Get a copy of the athletic field(s)/complexes, tennis courts permit policy Geocache Guidelines The following guidelines are to be adhered to when a geocache is proposed to be placed on park property:   KCMO Parks and Recreation be advised as to the location of any geocache placed within any of our park areas or properties.  No items be placed in a geocache that may be interpreted as offensive, racist or of a profane nature. Placement of the geocache shall not cause any damage to the park or amenities and/or pose any potential danger to park users. All geocache shall be clearly identified as a geocache to avoid confusion as to its nature and purpose. Geocache can be removed at any time for any reason by Parks and Recreation.  Contact Kim Blair, (816) 513-9580 or Kim_Blair@kcmo.org,  with questions or to request a location for a geocache.

Sidewalk Cafe Permits Kansas City, Mo., is proud of its unique and beautiful boulevards and parkways.  The historic system is a defining feature of our city's character.  Protecting our identity, while allowing the Boulevard and Parkway network to respond to the needs of the community, is a priority.  The Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners take seriously its responsibility to balance appropriate land uses and restrictions in order to maintain integrity of our system and adherence to George Kessler's vision.  Get more information here.