The Development Services Department Nightlife and Entertainment Services Group partners with venues and businesses to support music and entertainment in Austin. They act as a link between industry, residents, visitors, and city departments to ensure safety and compliance.

Alcoholic Beverage Permits

The City of Austin provides Alcoholic Beverage Permits to local businesses. Visit this page to determine if you need an Alcoholic Beverage Permit, which kind of permit, what the submission requirements are, and how to request more information.

Alcoholic Beverage Permits Webpage

Concrete Installation Permit (Non-Peak Hours) 

The Development Services Department (DSD) issues permits to install concrete between 7:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. 

 

Non-Peak Hr Concrete Permits Webpage

Mobile Retail Establishment Permit 

The City of Austin requires a permit for mobile retail establishments which sell non-food items and services to customers from a movable vehicle or trailer that routinely changes locations. DSD reviews and approves these permit applications.

Mobile Retail Establishment Permit Webpage 
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Outdoor Amplified Sound

The City of Austin requires a permit for all commercial and non-residential establishments that use sound equipment outdoors. Visit this landing page to view programs for outdoor sound equipment use.
 

Outdoor Amplified Sound Webpage

Parking Lot Patio Permit 

This program allows businesses to create a seating or retail area in owned or leased parking lots through the Parking Lot Patio Permit. Applicants interested in repurposing parking spots must apply for a permit through DSD and be inspected by the Austin Fire Department.

Parking Lot Patio Permit Webpage

Sip Safely

In April 2024, the City of Austin launched the Sip Safely pilot program designed to raise awareness about drink spiking and provide education about how to reduce the threat, support victims, and report incidents.
 

Drink Spiking Awareness Program Webpage 

Temporary Use Permit

Property may only be used for its legal use and in the spaces on the property designated for occupancy. DSD issues Temporary Use Permits to authorize occasional, temporary uses and activities. 
 

Temporary Use Permit Webpage