This amendment examined the existing standards and review processes for special events and food trucks to identify areas for improvement, increase flexibility, and remove unnecessary impediments and time limits. The adopted standards include revised standards and the introduction of a two-tiered administrative permits (AP) as well as a program of events AP process for special events.

• The Tier-One AP applies to one-day events, such as store grand openings, that can be held up to 12 times per year at the same location, with each event lasting up to 12 hours, including setup and breakdown, and accommodating up to 150 people at a time. Events may only occur between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. from Sunday through Thursday, and until 11 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and before federal holidays. Larger and longer events exceeding these standards can apply for a Tier-Two permit.
• The Tier-Two AP applies to longer events, such as summer concert series or holiday markets. The amendment increased the event duration to up to 60 days, increasing the duration from the previous limit of 21 days. Seasonal sales, including Christmas tree lots, can operate for up to 45 days, while carnivals and circuses can continue to operate for 21 days. Larger events exceeding 60 days may be approved with the approval of a Special Permit.
• The Program of Events applies to both Tier-One and Tier-Two APs where permits will be issued for a two-year period for a program of recurring special events that do not have significant changes from one year to the next in terms of the expected number of attendees or the duration and extent of the event. The AP for a program of events may include multiple events occurring on consecutive or non-consecutive days. The permit may be renewed for an additional period of up to five years, provided the applicant has demonstrated compliance with all standards and regulations and with a renewal fee.

While food trucks are a separate temporary use, during the research and outreach on this amendment, staff identified two potential changes to the food truck standards, which were included in this amendment. 

• Food trucks can now operate for more days with nonresidential uses in residential districts, such as neighborhood pools and community open space. The annual limit for food truck operations in residential areas will increase from 12 to 45 days.
• Additionally, the amendment allows one food truck on nonresidential properties with less than 25,000 square feet gross floor area, where previously food trucks were not allowed.