Special Use Policy and Fees

Total Use = Number of People per visit Multiplied by Number of Visits

Fees listed in this chart does not include sales tax of 7.375%. 

Sheriff's Deputies

Sheriff’s Deputies are required for alcohol service and for park road closures/traffic detail. All events are subject to the use of Deputies at Washington County Parks’ discretion with 4-hour minimum for Deputies. 

Road Permit

If the event leaves the park, a road permit is required. Contact Washington County Public Works at 651-430-4313 for information.

Water Surface Use

If the event takes place on waters in Washington County, a water surface use permit may be required from the Sheriff's Office. For more information, go to Water Surface Use. 

Certified Lifeguards

Any event that takes place in a body of water will require an adequate number of certified lifeguards. 

Direct Costs

Any costs not covered by the Special Use Fee, include:

• Extra hours of park staff time.
• Vehicle permits.
• Dumpsters.
• Portable toilets.

Groups over recommended occupancy may require special facilities such as portable toilets or dumpsters. Delivery and setup of the extra facilities will be arranged by Parks staff and added to the Special Use Permit as a Direct Cost.

Please provide the following information as it applies to your event:

Sheriff's Deputies

Sheriff’s Deputies are required for alcohol service and for park road closures/traffic detail. All events are subject to the use of Deputies at Washington County Parks’ discretion with 4-hour minimum for Deputies. 

Note: If the event requires additional or overflow parking, the parking plan must be pre-approved by Parks staff before a Special Use Permit is issued.

Maps

Physical copies of maps can be obtained through the Parks office at Lake Elmo Park Reserve or viewed online.  

Insurance Coverage for Special Events

All persons or groups renting a park or facility for a special event must have insurance to cover the event. You must provide Washington County Parks with proof of insurance two weeks (14 days) prior to the event start date. Your event may not take place until proof of insurance is received. 

Requirements

• The insurance policy must be in the name of the person signing the lease agreement with Washington County. 
• Washington County requires Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability with a minimum of $500,000 per claimant and a minimum of $1,500,000 single occurrence.
• Must list Washington County as a “Certificate Holder” through the date of the event. Do NOT list the Washington County Parks as “Additional Insured.”

We recommend you contact your insurance agent to determine the amount of coverage you need to protect you and your assets. Acquiring appropriate insurance for your event protects you against claims and ensures you are covered in the event of an accident. 

Example of How to List Washington County on the Insurance Form

If you have questions about our insurance requirements, please contact park staff at 651-430- 8370. Your agent may email an attachment to Parks@co.washington.mn.us.