Setting the PACE for Safety
The City of Austin has worked for several years to reduce the numerous hazards and City Code violations associated with large gatherings and parties. As part of its continued efforts to protect the safety and quality of life of Austin residents, the City of Austin has formed a Public Assembly Code Enforcement (PACE) Team to focus on these issues. This renewed focus on enforcement concerning public assembly events will affect how parties and large gatherings are conducted throughout the city.
NOTICES:
PACE Information Flyer (English) (pdf)
PACE Information Flyer (Spanish) (pdf)
New Outdoor Music Venue Ordinances (pdf)
See Music/Noise/Sound Permits and Restrictions page
Ordinance Violations, Complaints or Suggestions?
E-mail Public Assembly Code Enforcement
Why was the group formed?
The PACE Team was formed to ensure that events within the City limits are not only safe for those attending but also consider the impact on surrounding neighborhoods.
Mission of PACE Team:
- Safety of participants
- Quality of life of those affected
Issues being addressed include:
- Safety of temporary structures, such as party builds.
- Zoning requirements for your particular location.
- Risk of fire code hazards associated with large groups of individuals in confined areas.
- Enforcement of Texas and City of Austin laws, those relating to alcohol, noise and security.
- Permitting for public assemblies.
Team Members:
- Austin/Travis County Health & Human Services Department
- COA Fire Department
- COA Police Department
- Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission
- Texas Department of Public Safety
- COA Code Compliance
- COA Transportation, Right of Way Management
- COA Planning Development and Review Department
PACE Members meet on the second Wednesday of every month in One Texas Center, 505 Barton Springs Rd., 3rd floor conference room @ 10:00 a.m.
Does PACE apply to my gathering?
Many permits may be required for public gatherings. Please refer to the checklist to determine which permits, if any, may be required. For the safety of attendees, be advised that PACE may shut down events that do not have the required permits.
Please select this link to apply for a Temporary Change of Use Permit online. Temporary Change of Use (TCOU) permits are required for Public Assemblies held on Residential, Multi-Family, Fraternities, Retail, Office and Commercial properties.
