Can I serve food or alcohol at my event? 
Yes, and depending on the type of event you are holding, you may be required to obtain appropriate permits and comply with rules from the Tacoma Pierce County Health Department and from the Washington State Liquor Control Board (WSLCB). 

Generally speaking if your event is private (like a residential block party) and you are not selling food or beverages, you are not subject to restrictions by the Health Department or the WSLCB.

Can I sell food or alcohol at my event?
Yes. You will be required to obtain appropriate permits and comply with rules from the Tacoma Pierce County Health Department and from the Washington State Liquor Control Board (WSLCB). If your event will be held in a City-managed public park, alcohol consumption is not permitted. If your event will be held in a Metro Parks-managed property you may be able to acquire a special use permit. Go to the Metro Parks website for more information. 

Am I required to have security personnel if serving alcohol?
Yes. If required, you must hire either off duty Tacoma police officer(s), or approved private security personnel. For more information contact City of Tacoma Police Department Special Events Sergeant at (253) 591-5932.

Who do I contact at the Health Department?
Temporary permits for the serving and selling of food may be obtained from Tacoma Pierce County Health Department at (253) 649-1703.

Who do I contact at the Washington State Liquor Control Board?
Local WSLCB agent can be found by calling (360) 664-9878 or by going to the WSLCB website.

Can I sell food or alcohol at my event? Do I need a business license to sell items?
Yes. If you personally sell items at your event you may be required to obtain a business license from the City's Tax & License Department. They can be reached at (253) 591-5252 or by going to the Tax and License webpage.

Can I charge admission for my event?
Yes. If you opt to charge admission for your event you may be required to obtain a business license from the City's Tax & License Department. They can be reached at (253) 591-5252 or by going to the Tax and License webpage.

Can I charge vendors for spaces at my event? Do vendors at the event need a business license?
If you opt to have multiple vendors at your event you may be required to obtain a special multiple vendor license from the City's Tax and License Department. They can be reached at (253) 591-5252 or by going to the Tax and License webpage.