As fall and winter events draw near, Linn County reminds event organizers they must apply for a temporary use/special event permit for public events in unincorporated Linn County. These permits are essential to ensuring events comply with local zoning regulations and safeguards are in place to protect attendees, vendors, and event organizers.

Examples of public events that may need a temporary use permit include concerts, markets, 5Ks, memorial rides, haunted houses, temporary assembly, etc. Temporary use permits are also required for portable concrete mixing plants in unincorporated Linn County.

Event organizers should contact the Planning & Development Department before applying for the permit or investing significantly in the event to avoid potential issues or financial loss should the application be denied.

Applicants are encouraged to submit applications at least 60 days before the start of the activity or event to avoid expedited fees. Applications for activities or events that are submitted fourteen (14) days or less from the start date of the event are subject to an expedited application fee of $500, compared to the standard application fee of $100.

Required permit application materials include:
• Completed application form signed by the property owner
and/or applicant

• Application fee
• Minor site plan, event map, or race route
• Severe weather plan
• Certificate of liability insurance

Temporary use/special event permit applications are available on the Linn County Planning & Development website. For questions about the permit application, call the Planning & Development Department at 319-892-5130 or email [email protected].

Food and Beverage Permits
• Food and Beverages: Public events involving food or beverage service need to work with a licensed mobile unit (food truck/trailer), or the vendors (caterer) must have either an annual temporary event license from the State of Iowa or secure a temporary food service license from Linn County Public Health. Applications for a temporary food service license must be submitted at least three days prior to the event. Contact Linn County Public Health at 319-892-6000 with questions about event-related food and beverage service.

• Alcohol Sales: Public events selling alcohol must obtain the necessary permits and licenses from the Linn County Auditor’s Office. Contact the Office at 319-892-5300 or email [email protected] to start the permit process.