Permits
Permits
Buffalo Bayou is the ideal location for your exercise group, picnic event, marriage proposal, or other activity. Just be sure to obtain a permit as you plan!
Ensure a seamless experience by reviewing policies below to see what requires a permit and contact us with any questions.
Permits & Applications
If you are planning one of the following activities in Buffalo Bayou Park, you may need a permit:
- Filming and photography
- Group exercise
- Walking and running groups
- Gatherings of more than 9 participants
- Picnic or food vendors
- Proposals, weddings, or other special occasions
Review the requirements for each permit type and find links to the appropriate applications in this section. Completed applications may be submitted to permits@buffalobayou.org or in person at The Water Works Visitor Center in Buffalo Bayou Park.
Please note that all permit holders and participants are required to follow Buffalo Bayou’s trail and green space rules.
Questions? Contact us!
Film & Photography
Do you need a permit?
Video and photo shoots require permits if they are:
- Commercial (someone has paid for the shoot or the shoot is for a commercial use)
- Taking place in the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern
For press or news purposes, please coordinate with BBP’s team in advance.
Permit Applications
Walking & Running Groups
Do you need a permit?
Walking and running groups require permits if:
- There are more than 9 participants
- Participation is paid or requires paid membership
- Tables, tents, or water stations will be installed on park property
- Trails will be marked
Permit Applications
Group Exercise
Do you need a permit?
Group exercise events require permits if:
- Participation is paid or ticketed
- There are more than 9 participants
- They use park exercise equipment and/or bring equipment
Permit Applications
Group Picnics & Picnic Vendors
Do you need a permit?
A group picnic requires a permit if:
- There are more than 9 participants
- Props, structures, tables, or tents are installed on park property
- A commercial picnic vendor is involved
All commercial picnic vendors are required to submit an application.
Permit Applications
Food Vendors
Do you need a permit?
Operating a food truck or pushcart in Buffalo Bayou Park requires a contract and valid permit.
Permit Applications
Proposals, Weddings, & Special Use
Do you need a permit?
The following special uses of Buffalo Bayou parks or trails require permits:
- Gatherings of more than 9 participants
- Events of any size that intend to install props, structures, tents, or tables
- Vendors operating the set up for events on behalf of others
- Proposals and wedding ceremonies
Special use permits may be required for other activities than those listed above. For questions on specific activities, please contact us.
Permit Applications
Frequently Asked Questions
The following activities may require a permit:
- Filming and photography
- Group exercise
- Walking and running groups
- Gatherings of more than 9 participants
- Picnic or food vendors
- Proposals, weddings, or other special occasions
You can obtain a permit online or in person.
Online
Complete the appropriate permit application from the selection above and submit to permits@buffalobayou.org.
In Person
Go to The Water Works Visitor Center (105-B Sabine Street) in Buffalo Bayou Park and fill out an application in person.
Not all permits require a fee.
Some permits do not require a fee but are important in helping BBP’s staff coordinate traffic in Buffalo Bayou’s green space network.
Commercial uses or activities that have paid participation typically require a permit fee.
Permit fees support BBP’s operations and contribute directly to the maintenance of the Buffalo Bayou green space network.
Permit fees are based on use and the impact of the activity on general visitor experience. Activities that typically require a permit fee are:
- Commercial uses (ex: vendors and photography)
- Paid participation (ex: group exercise, classes)
- Large gatherings
Permit applications must be submitted 3 days prior to the planned event or activity.
Have a copy of your permit on-hand during your activity – a BBP staff member may ask to see it.
All permitted activities and participants must abide by Buffalo Bayou park rules, along with the guidelines stipulated on your permit. Find a full list of park rules here.
Filming and photography for news media (press publications, broadcast news, etc.) does not require a permit.
However, please contact Buffalo Bayou Partnership in advance for coordination purposes.