Tempe Charitable Event Fee Waiver - City Process

Events and Special Uses Arizona 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 20, 2026 Flag of Arizona

In Tempe, Arizona organizers of charitable or nonprofit events should follow the citys special-event and permit procedures to request fee waivers or reductions. This guide explains who approves waivers, typical documentation, timing, and practical steps so nonprofit groups can plan a compliant event in public parks, plazas, or streets. Start early: applications and supporting proof of nonprofit status are usually required and review times vary by department.

Apply early to allow administrative review and Council scheduling if required.

Fee waiver overview

Fee waivers for charitable events are handled through Tempes special events and permitting process. The Community Services department publishes application requirements and permit types; specific waiver criteria and discretionary approvals are set by the city and may require departmental review or City Council action. See the citys special-events guidance for permit types and submission steps: Tempe Special Events[1]. For public-safety staffing, traffic control, and enforcement expectations contact Tempe Police: Tempe Police Department[2].

Nonprofit documentation and a clear event plan are typically required for waiver consideration.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement for unpermitted or noncompliant events is performed by Tempe enforcement authorities; the special-events guidance and municipal code outline permit requirements and enforcement roles. Specific fine amounts, escalation schedules, and statutory penalties are not specified on the cited Special Events or Police pages and must be confirmed with the City Clerk or municipal code.[1][2]

  • Fines: not specified on the cited pages; see municipal code or contact City Clerk for exact figures.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, or continuing offences and their ranges are not specified on the Special Events guidance.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to cease, permit revocation, removal of structures, or referral to court may be used as enforcement tools.
  • Enforcer and inspections: Tempe Police and Community Services staff coordinate compliance and inspections for public-safety, traffic and park-use conditions.
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes and statutory time limits are not specified on the cited pages; contact City Clerk for formal appeal procedures and deadlines.

Applications & Forms

The city provides special-event permit applications, checklists, and insurance requirements on its Special Events page. A distinct fee-waiver request form is not always published separately; if no waiver form is posted, submit a written waiver request with your permit application and nonprofit documentation to the listed department contact.[1]

How to request a fee waiver - key steps

  1. Plan event date and location and review applicable permit types on the Special Events guidance.[1]
  2. Prepare documentation: IRS determination letter or state nonprofit registration, event description, expected attendance, insurance certificate, and proposed routes or layouts.
  3. Complete the special-event permit and include a written fee-waiver request explaining public benefit and citing nonprofit status.
  4. Submit application to the Community Services or permitting contact listed on the city page and confirm receipt; follow up with Tempe Police if public-safety staffing may be required.[2]
  5. If required, request scheduling for City Council or administrative review per instructions from City staff.

FAQ

Who can apply for a fee waiver?
Nonprofit and charitable organizations that can document tax-exempt status may apply; private or for-profit events are generally ineligible.
How far in advance must I apply?
Application deadlines vary by permit type; the Special Events page lists submission timelines and recommends applying as early as possible.
Is there a published waiver form?
If a separate waiver form is not published, include a written waiver request with your special-event application and nonprofit documentation.

How-To

  1. Read Tempes Special Events guidance and identify the permit type needed.
  2. Gather nonprofit proof and prepare a concise written waiver justification describing community benefit.
  3. Submit the permit application with the waiver request to Community Services and notify Tempe Police if the event needs safety staffing.
  4. Follow up with the assigned staff, provide additional information if requested, and, if necessary, request administrative or Council review.

Key Takeaways

  • Start early and include nonprofit documentation with your permit.
  • Coordinate with Community Services and Tempe Police for safety and staffing needs.

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