If you'd like to close a public street, you'll need to obtain a free Block Party Street Closure Permit from the City and show proof of insurance. We know that the last thing you want to worry about when planning a party is government red tape, so we've made the process as painless as possible.

Step 1. Decide what section of the street you want to close. Generally the City will approve the closure of residential local streets on weekends and holidays. If you're not sure if the City will approve a particular location and want to get an early reading from the City, call Don Murphy in the Public Services Department at 943-5899, ext. 2333.

Step 2. Contact the residents along the closed portion of the street. We don't require you to get the written consent of the residents, but out of common courtesy they should be contacted and have a chance to voice any concerns.

Step 3. Obtain any needed insurance. The City requires permit applicants to have insurance covering the City. Your homeowner's insurance may not cover these type of special events and doesn't cover the City, but you may be able to obtain the necessary coverage in a rider to your insurance through your insurance agent. Alternatively, the City can arrange for insurance. This insurance covers only the public right-of-way, not accidents occurring on private property. The insurance applicant will not be able to personally file claims against this insurance. If you plan to sell alcohol, or if you will be serving alcohol and charging for admission to the block party, you will need to pay for additional alcohol liability coverage. Call (925) 94-5899 ext. 2177 for information on insurance and a quote for coverage.

Step 4. If you plan to sell alcohol, first obtain a letter of permission to sell alcoholic beverages from the Walnut Creek Police Department (call them at 943-5844), then file for a permit with the State Alcoholic Beverage Control Department. Call the local Alcoholic Beverage Control Department office at (510) 639-0628 or check their website at http://www.abc.ca.gov/. Frankly, it's a lot easier not to sell alcohol.

Step 5. Complete the Block Party Street Closure Permit application, (click here for a PDF version of the permit; you must have Adobe Acrobat on your computer to download. Click here for a free Adobe Acrobat download) The application is intentionally short and costs nothing to submit (unless you purchase insurance through the City as discussed above). File the application with Don Murphy in the Public Services Department at 943-5899, ext. 2333. If possible, submit the application a month prior to the party.

Step 6. Barricades will be delivered before your party and picked up afterwards at no charge. The Street Maintenance Supervisor will contact you to confirm a drop-off and pick-up time after your permit has been approved.

Step 7. Have fun!!!