Get a sound truck permit

You need this permit to use amplified sound equipment on a vehicle, float, or other moving object outdoors. This includes using this equipment on:

• A city street
• A city sidewalk
• Private property, like a parking lot

You do not need this permit for use on SF Recreation and Parks property, federal property, or at a private residence. 

One permit can cover more than one sound truck at the same event. One permit can cover up to 12 hours.

For an outdoor event with amplified sound or entertainment in one location, like a street fair or concert, apply for our One Time Outdoor Event Permit. 

You also need permission from whoever owns or manages the property you will be driving on. This could be a: 

• Parade Permit from the SF Police Department
• Temporary street closure permit from the SFMTA (ISCOTT)
• Special event license from the Port of San Francisco
• Letter from the property owner or manager
• Contract to rent the space

If you are the property owner or manager, you don’t need a letter or contract. You can just confirm your status on the application. 

You will need to know:

• Your route, with a route map
• Hours you will have outdoor amplified sound
• Contact info for the person in direct control of the sound truck(s)
• Size of your sound equipment
   

In the application, you will need to agree to rules and responsibilities. You will need to give detailed responses to the security plan questions; short, one-sentence answers will not be accepted.

It will take about 30 minutes. We will send you a confirmation email and information about what to do next.

Pay using the online payment portal. 

For a business that qualifies for the City's First Year Free program, first email us to request a fee waiver at entertainment.commission@sfgov.org and include your business name, address, and Business Account Number (BAN). 

The SF Entertainment Commission has the right to deny an application submitted less than 7 days before an event. Once we begin processing your application, we may not refund your fee.