Lisa Gardner, City Council Communications Director, 509.625.6226
Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 8:36 a.m.
During Monday’s Legislative Session, City Council voted to approve and adopt a new section to 16A.84.090 of the Spokane Municipal Code (SMC) titled, “Play Streets & Neighborhood Block Party Program” ordinance explicitly allowing neighbors to temporarily close non-arterial streets for recreational use and community gatherings.
“True safety begins with knowing your neighbors,” said Council Member Kitty Klitzke. “This ordinance provides a unique opportunity for residents to unite and create a supportive network that enhances our collective well-being. The Play Streets ordinance promotes safer neighborhoods and community-oriented engagement through active neighbor engagement and connection.”
Set to launch this June and run through Halloween, a special event permit will be required for a play street or block party closure. However, permit and application fees shall be waived for any play street or block party that is free and open to the public, on a non-arterial street no greater than one block, does not include an intersection, and does not require traffic control personnel.
With the passing of this ordinance, the City shall develop program policies and procedures consistent with this section.
About the Spokane City Council
The City Council is the legislative body of the City of Spokane, which is home to more than 229,000 people and is located in the heart of the Inland Northwest. The City’s 2,000 employees strive to deliver efficient and effective services that facilitate economic opportunity and enhance the quality of life for all our citizens. For more information, visit SpokaneCity.org/CityCouncil/ and follow us @SpokaneCityCouncil on Facebook.
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