How to Guide to Entertainment Permits
By Middagh Goodwin
It is unlawful for any person to own, conduct, operate, maintain, or participate therein any place of entertainment in the City of Modesto without first having obtained an Entertainment Permit. Failure to obtain an Entertainment Permit can result in penalties under Municipal Code 4-1.420. It is necessary to complete a Business Entertainment Permit Application to obtain your Entertainment Permit.
That sounds a little intimidating and sometimes permitting can seem like a challenge. The cost of an entertainment permit is $250 along with a $25 application fee, if you need to expedite the process it will cost you $650. If you are a nonprofit the fees are $25 and $400 for expedited service. All fees are non-refundable. These fees are the same for events and festivals. Be aware that the process takes some time and you will need to go in front of the Entertainment Commission which meets twice a month when needed. In my 8-plus years of being on the commission, we have never denied a permit, we often ask for more details or make suggestions to make the process easier or events safer, but our goal is always to help with the process. Entertainment falls under the umbrella of the Economic Development Department of the City of Modesto, for more information you can contact Cue Tan at ctan@modestogov.com.
Some businesses that are exempt from an entertainment permit include:
- Any establishment, venue, or assemblage of seventy-five persons or less, as described in the maximum occupancy load of the business.
- Entertainment is provided for guests at a private event, such as a wedding reception, banquet, worship services, or where the event takes place at a property that is a residential occupancy.
- Entertainment consists of ambient or incidental music provided for guests or patrons by musicians such as a piano player, harpist, strolling violinist, mariachi band, traditional jukebox, karaoke, guitarist, or band. However, if there is an admission charge required to observe or attend such entertainment, the music will not be considered ambient or incidental.
I am currently the acting Vice Chair of the Entertainment Commission until a replacement is appointed if you are interested in becoming a member of the Entertainment or any other Modesto Commission you can apply here www.modestogov.com/2762/Application-for-Boards-Commissions-Commi get involved and be part of a better Modesto.
More information on fees: https://www.modestogov.com/2451/Fees-for-Entertainment-Permits
To apply online: https://mode-trk.aspgov.com/eTRAKiT/
