Central Station Parties | Tips & Advice

Without the proper permits, the excitement and hard work involved in planning and creating your event can quickly be extinguished by the regulatory agencies if you don't follow the rules.

Once an event is booked, the following steps should be taken to alert the following regulatory agencies:

CONTACT MEMPHIS/SHELBY COUNTY CODE ENFORCEMENT
(BUILDING DEPARTMENT)
(901) 385-5199

Other permit departments involved are not able to issue their certain permits until the proper "Use & Occupancy Permit" has been secured from Code Enforcement.

That permit will direct the coordinator or individual to other appropriate agencies required to be contacted, i.e., Fire, Health, Police.
NOTIFY MEMPHIS/SHELBY COUNTY PERMITS OFFICE
(901) 545-4081
Lily Jackson

Ms. Jackson issues all Public Assembly Permits, Beer Permits, Parade Permits, and Street Closure Permits. A copy of the permits are faxed to Lt. Bob McCulley of the Memphis Police Department at 274-8154. He will contact the coordinator of the event and make arrangements for inspections where necessary. The application for use is passed along to the MPD commander for subsequent approval/denial/modification, etc.

The MPD is involved mostly with street closures and parades, but it must be notified of all gatherings to determine whether it needs to be involved or not.
NOTIFY MEMPHIS FIRE DEPARTMENT PERMIT OFFICE
(901) 320-5400
Lt. Bill Billings, Chief Jeff Pickett or Supervisor Ron Brown

Regardless of the type of event, the Memphis Fire Department should be notified. They will inspect decorations, lighting, food cooking equipment, capacity and exit requirements. DON'T TAKE CHANCES WITH THIS ONE!!!
CHECK WITH THE MEMPHIS/SHELBY COUNTY HEALTH DEPT. FOOD SERVICES/SANITATION
(901) 544-7763
Dorothy Mells

If you use a private caterer for a private function, the Health Department does not need to be contacted if, in fact, the caterer is permitted by the Health Department. The event planner or coordinator should contact the Health Department to be certain that it is covered.

If you are hosting a private function where food will be served or sold to the public, or if it is simply allowing taste testing, a permit must be issued by the Health Department. Fees are based on what type of food & how much food is being served.

Some insights from event planner Fran Carpenter, president of Main Events:

Electrical Permits

I recommend asking a licensed electrician to review any electrical plans (even twinkle lights). He can determine if an electrical permit might be required.

Building Codes

Any event planned at or in a site that was not intended for the event's purpose will most likely need a permit, especially if the site is under construction.

Fire Department

An inspector will discuss with you what is needed to ensure your event is safe in case of fire or any other emergency.
All decorative materials must be flame retardant. The inspector will flame test any questionable materials.
The regulations can be misinterpreted, so it is important to get everything in writing.
If fireworks will be used at the event, the Fire Department can explain the process necessary to obtain a state fireworks permit with local support.

Alcohol

The rule of thumb concerning alcohol permits is that if the event is a private, invitation-only event, and no one else will be allowed to attend, no permit is required. However, if anyone can buy a ticket or "get invited," alcohol permits will be needed.
For beer-only permits, contact the Memphis Police Department Permit Office. The state's Alcohol Commission issues a temporary permit for wine, liquor and other spirits.

Caterers

Caterers are required to provide the necessary health permits for their operation. However, make sure you have proof in writing.

Other

Some other permits to keep in mind that may be required include a parade permit, street closing permit, banner/sign permits, health permits, and so on.

Important Final Thought

Permits must be obtained prior to the event. Consulting the appropriate agencies is a must. If these agencies hear of your event and they have not been contacted in advanced, expect a visit!