Office holiday closure

Our office will be closed December 23-January 3. Open space preserves remain open!

A small, empty parking lot surrounded by a low, split-rail fence next to a green field with a large oak tree and wooded hillsides in the background. The sky is blue and filled with small, fluffy white clouds.

Reservations & Permits

Reservations

New reservation system coming soon! Check back February 2025.

Permits

Some activities at open space preserves require a use permit. Please read the following information carefully to determine whether your activity or event is eligible for a permit.  

All permit requests are reviewed carefully to consider: 

  • Whether the activity will have an adverse impact on visitors, wildlife or the landscape. 
  • If Open Space Authority staff are available in case of emergencies. 
  • If the time, place and size of the event will disrupt normal operations. 
  • If there are scheduling conflicts with other events or activities. 
Request a Permit

Group Activities 

A group activity on Open Space Authority land requires a permit for any activity or event which:  

  • is advertised or noticed in any publication, poster, electronic posting or flyer; OR 
  • requests or requires a fee be paid for participation; OR  
  • may be attended by twenty-five (25) or more people.  

Other Activities  

Permits are required for activities on Open Space Authority land including, but not limited to:  

  • After-hours astronomy  
  • School groups or educational field trips  
  • Fieldwork and scientific research  
  • Filming and photography  
  • Running/exercise groups  
  • Scattering of cremains  
  • Private parties  

Prohibited activities – no permit will be issued

  • Events with open flame 
  • Parties with large tents (i.e. gala events) 
  • Extreme sports events (i.e. obstacle races) 
  • Other activities that upon review are determined to endanger or negatively impact the public, Open Space Authority staff, volunteers, wildlife or natural resources.  

About the permit process 

  • All permit applicants should allow a minimum of 30 days for permit processing. 
  • Email us a request inquiry, and Open Space Authority staff will contact you within two (2) business days. 
  • If your event requires a permit, Open Space Authority staff will send you the Permit for Use form. 
  • A Permit processing fee of $250 is required for most permits. No fees are assessed for scientific, academic or educational permits. The processing fee is non-refundable. 
  • Permit applicants will be required to submit an insurance certificate co-naming Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority for at least $1,000,000 of liability insurance coverage for the requested date(s) of activity. 
  • After all information is received and reviewed you will be notified of your permit approval and receive a copy of the permit. You will also be notified of any requests, special access or safety information. 
  • Please know that Open Space Authority may request results of any research conducted on Open Space Authority preserves. 
Request a Permit