Washoe County adopts updated special events rules setting 2,000‑attendee threshold, 75 dB limit

The Washoe County Open Space and Regional Parks Commission on Jan. 28 approved an updated special events policy intended to clarify when events must appear before the commission and to standardize permitting and enforcement.

Operations superintendent Stephanie D'Arcy said the changes are largely an update, not a brand-new rule: "It indicates that this is the first time that this special event policy has come for approval. However ... November 2004, it did go to the Board of County Commissioners before those policies came to park commission and was approved at that time," she said. The policy will take effect Jan. 28, 2026.

District park manager Andy Brown outlined the main thresholds and expectations. "A special event is any gathering that expects 2,000 or more attendees or requires exclusive use of a significant park area," Brown said. The rewrite sets clearer timelines for applicants (requests may be made up to 18 months in advance; staff generally seeks final approvals no sooner than 90 days before an event) and requires site plans, parking and ingress/egress plans, and, for larger events, an emergency action plan.

The update adds operational limits and neighbor protections, including a 75‑decibel cap on amplified sound measured at event boundaries to match similar city standards and a requirement that neighbors be notified at least 30 days before a major event. Brown said the county will enforce sound limits using the event boundary shown on the site plan.

Commissioners pressed staff on insurance thresholds and waivers for small or private gatherings. Brown and county staff described insurance levels as tiered by event size and type, with risk management able to set specific requirements; staff said long-standing nonprofit partners sometimes receive waivers or different handling. Eric Crump, community services director, noted the county relies on risk and finance staff to set insurance and fee-waiver details for large events.

After discussion, Commissioner Joel moved to approve the policy and Commissioner Dake seconded. The motion carried by voice vote.

What happens next: staff said they will bring related clarifications and additional policies for small commercial or low-impact activities back to the commission in coming meetings, and that routine special activities will continue to be handled administratively.