Des Moines Crowd Control Barricade Permits - Event Guide

Public Safety Iowa 3 Minutes Read · published February 10, 2026 Flag of Iowa

In Des Moines, Iowa event organizers must secure the correct crowd control barricade permits and traffic/rights-of-way approvals before using streets, sidewalks or public spaces for crowd management. This guide explains the local permitting path, which City departments enforce rules, practical application steps, and what to expect at inspection, enforcement and appeal stages. Read the steps, required materials, and timelines to reduce interruptions to your event and avoid fines or orders.

Overview of Permitting Requirements

Barricades used for crowd control typically require approval as part of a Special Event permit or a Right-of-Way/encroachment permit when they occupy public property. Contact the City Clerk’s Special Events office for event permitting details and the Public Works Right-of-Way program for street/sidewalk encroachment rules via the official pages linked below. Special Events permit information[1] Right-of-Way and traffic control permits[2]

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is handled by the City of Des Moines departments responsible for the venue, typically Public Works for right-of-way violations and the City Clerk or Police for event permit compliance. Specific fine amounts and escalation schedules are not specified on the cited pages; see the official links for department contact and to request current fee schedules.[1][2]

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first and repeat offence ranges: not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop work orders, permit revocation, removal of barricades or seizure of unpermitted equipment and court action.
  • Enforcer and inspection: Public Works Traffic/Right-of-Way and City Clerk/Police; submit complaints or compliance requests via official department contacts.
  • Appeals and review: not specified on the cited page; contact the enforcing department promptly for appeal instructions and time limits.

Applications & Forms

Application names, form numbers, fees and online submission links are not clearly published in a single consolidated form on the cited pages; organizers should contact the City Clerk Special Events office and Public Works Right-of-Way permitting to obtain the correct application, fee schedule and submission method.[1][2]

Practical Requirements and Common Violations

Expect requirements for certified traffic control plans, certified flaggers if using streets, approved barricade types, and insurance naming the City as an additional insured. Common violations and typical consequences include:

  • Failure to obtain a Special Event permit when required.
  • Unapproved placement of barricades in travel lanes or obstructing ADA access.
  • Not providing an approved traffic control plan or flagging personnel.
  • Operating without required insurance or bond.
Confirm permit types early to avoid late fees or denial.

How-To

  1. Determine whether your event requires a Special Event permit and/or a Right-of-Way/encroachment permit by contacting the City Clerk Special Events office and Public Works.[1]
  2. Prepare a site plan showing barricade locations, ingress/egress, ADA routes and estimated durations; include traffic control plans if streets are involved.
  3. Obtain required insurance certificates and pay applicable fees as instructed by the permitting office.
  4. Submit applications and supporting documents to the City Clerk and/or Public Works, then schedule any required inspections.
  5. Follow up with the enforcing department for permit issuance, maintain copies on site during the event, and comply with inspection instructions.
Keep insurance and traffic plans available during inspections.

FAQ

Do I always need a barricade permit for outdoor events?
Not always; if barricades are placed on public property or affect traffic/sidewalks you typically need a Special Event permit and/or a Right-of-Way permit.
Where do I apply for the permit?
Apply via the City Clerk Special Events office for event permits and Public Works for right-of-way permits; contact links are provided in Resources.
What if I need barricades at the last minute?
Contact the enforcing department immediately; expedited review may be possible but fees or denial can occur if safety standards are unmet.

Key Takeaways

  • Plan early: coordinate with City Clerk and Public Works to confirm required permits.
  • Submit complete traffic control plans and insurance to avoid delays.
  • Unpermitted barricades risk stop orders, removal and possible fines.

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