The Office of Special Events manages a list of upcoming road closures that have been issued special event permits. Jump to the posts on this page for details about large-scale events with multiple road closures, parking restrictions, and public safety measures.

StreetsSmartPHL is your go-to portal for viewing information about Streets Department activities. Residents can get up-to-date information on:

• Street and sidewalk closure permits.
• Paving operations.
• Trash and recycling collection.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) web page features helpful region- and event-specific resources, along with event maps dedicated to monitoring traffic conditions on primary travel routes to each event.

You may need a specific permit for your event or block party. Some permits are handled by different City departments. Review the following information carefully.

Block party permit

Residents can apply to close their street for a block party. This application requires signatures from your neighbors and is permitted by the Streets Department. You can contact the Streets Department at (215) 686-5500 or (215) 686-5502 Monday through Friday, between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Block Party Bonanza program

Block Party Bonanza applications are open! Learn more about the program and how your block can be considered by visiting our Block Party Bonanza blog post. Eligible block parties must take place between May 23 and October 3.

Special event application

For larger events in business corridors, including street festivals, a Special Event Application may be required and is permitted by the Office of Special Events. If you have any questions, contact the Office of Special Events at (215) 686-3488.

Other event permits

For events taking place in Parks & Recreation sites, such as parks, fields, or rec centers, you need permits from Philadelphia Parks & Recreation.

If you have any issues with City services, contact 311. The City will continue to provide day-to-day services for residents throughout the summer during major events. Additional sanitation services and resources will be made available during peak summer months in anticipation of increased visitor traffic.

Emergency contacts

• Medical, police, or fire emergencies: call 911 
• SEPTA Transit Police: call (215) 580-8111 or text-a-tip to (215) 234-1911
• National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988

Police and fire stations

• Find a police district
• Find a fire station

Non-emergency and City service information

• Visit Philly311’s website or call 311

Whenever you go to a big event, keep these tips in mind to ensure the safety of yourself and others:

• Look for the nearest exit and alternative options. If you’re with a group, discuss an emergency meet-up location in case you get separated.
• If bringing children, ensure they wear bright colors or distinctive clothing. Take a picture of them before leaving and email it to yourself. Write your phone number on a bracelet, on their wrist, or on a piece of paper in their pocket.
• If you see something suspicious, report it right away. See Something Send Something (See Send) is a nationwide suspicious activity reporting (SAR) tool for citizens to help in the fight against terrorism. Download the See Something Send Something app.

Check out the Office of Emergency Management’s safety guide for special events.

• The City issues different types of heat alerts, depending on the weather. During very hot weather, the City may declare a heat health emergency.
• During very hot weather, the City can declare a Code Red to protect people who are homeless. A Code Red also affects dog shelter requirements.

Human trafficking can happen anywhere, and major transit hubs are often used in trafficking situations. Learn how to recognize signs of human trafficking.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911. To contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline:

• Call (888) 373-7888 (phone interpretation services are provided).
• Send a text to 233733.
• Use the hotline website’s live chat.