Permits for Weddings and Special Events
A permit is necessary for any event (e.g. picnics, weddings, ballgames, gatherings or celebrations) with 20 or more people in attendance. You can apply for all types of permits on the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation website. Tip: Plan ahead! You can also call 212.408.0226 for Special Events Permits or 212.408.0209 for Athletic Field Permits. http://www.nycgovparks.org/permits
School Groups
Any activity in Central Park with more than 20 people requires a permit. To reserve a specific spot for any amount of people, also requires a permit. Apply for a special event permit with the City of New York Parks & Recreation Department. Website: http://www.nycgovparks.org
Large Groups of 20+ People
If you want to have any activity in Central Park that includes more than 20 people, OR if you would like to reserve a specific area in the Park, you must apply for a special event permit with the City of New York Parks & Recreation Department. NYC Parks Department website has more details on various permits. Please note it takes 21 to 30 days to process a permit, so plan ahead. http://www.nycgovparks.org
Soccer league, volleyball courts, softball reservations
Please visit the following link to reserve a space to hold a game: http://www.nycgovparks.org/facilities/baseball
Wedding Photography Permits
The permit application fee for a 30-minute wedding photo shoot is $100 (non-refundable) and parties are limited to 25 people, including the newlyweds and their parents. In case of rain, you can reserve another date. Please bring your permit on the day of your event, as park staff will need to see it. Click the link to access the application.