Groups and Special Event Permits

Small groups, which are 24 or fewer adults and children, do not require reservations or permits. Organizers are responsible for limiting the size of their group and may be subject to citation and expulsion from the preserve if the group size exceeds 24 people.

Groups of 25 or more require a reservation or a permit. These include activities such as picnic groups, weddings, hiking and mountain biking meet-ups, classes and docent-led walks.Organizers are responsible for limiting the size of their group.

• Picnic Reservations
• Baylands: Contact the Supervising Ranger at 650-617-3156.
• Pearson Arastradero Preserve: Contact the Supervising Ranger in Foothills Nature Preserve at 650-329-2423.
• Foothills Nature Preserve:  
  • For group hikes, classes or similar, contact the Supervising Ranger at 650-329-2423.
  • Oak Grove Picnic Area is the only reservable area for groups of 25 or more. It has a capacity of 1 to 150 people.
  • Towle Camp campground may be reserved by groups for use in May through October.
  • To make a reservation for Oak Grove or Towle Camp, use the city's online reservation system. Note that a Foothills Guest List(PDF, 75KB) must be sent to Foothills Staff one week before your event (open.space@cityofpaloalto.org).

A Gathering Permit is a basic “free” permit required for groups of 25 or more who gather in public parks or plaza’s, and when a Special Event Permit is not required. This permit does not provide for exclusive use, but allows usage on a first-come, first-serve basis only. No Insurance is required.

For events in Open Space (Foothills, Baylands or Pearson-Arastradero), a special use permit is required for the preserve you wish to use. Please see below for information on obtaining a special use permit.

To submit a request for a Gathering Permit, complete the online questionnaire and all forms. All forms must be filled out completely, with a detailed description of the event. An aerial diagram of the event may also be required. Please allow 10 days for processing, once all requirements are submitted.

Submit Gathering Permit Request

"Special events," such as running or bicycling races, usually require the use of many city resources (e.g., road closures, police or fire personnel). Permits for these events are required to be completed at least a month in advance.

"Special uses" include scientific research or collecting, commercial photography, rest stops for athletic training events, and weddings. All require permits in advance.

• Special Event Permits:  download the Special Event Permit Application
  (PDF, 497KB)
• Special Use Permits:
  • Email: open.space@cityofpaloalto.org 
  • Baylands: contact the Supervising Ranger at 650-617-3156.
  • Pearson - Arastradero Preserve and Foothills Nature Preserve: contact the Supervising Ranger at 650-329-2423.