Race Permits

[Trailrunnerdude]

I'd like to know what other race directors' experiences have been recently with obtaining the permits from various stakeholders (municipal governments, police, transportation authorities, etc...). The process seems to have gotten more difficult and frustrating. Thanks.

[jeff darman]

I deal with the Federal government which at times has been no picnic. But over the last several years my experience has been good but that is in large measure because of having built up good personal relationships and trust.

I think in "normal" municialities "massaging" the political system when necessary is a must.Keep good relations with permit folks but also their bosses---politicians etc.

[pstewart]

I think it depends on the number of events taking place in your city. A city government may welcome the first 2-3 running events in a year but be worn down by the 30-40th application. When they get overloaded they may fall back on a one-size-fits-all solution of only allowing runners to run on one course. Then the runners lose out on any variety.

[Patti SC]

I organize a race on behalf of the Police, so permits are easily obtained. A committee member from the Police Department approaches the other agencies for usage permits - a real advantage for us! Where I get stung financially is the medical support costs........

[HI-TEK Racing]

Here in Southeastern Connecticut, and perhaps true in most other places, the difficulty in obtaining permits, or whether a permit is even required varies greatly from one municipality to another.

There are some places where police are provided free for a small road race and no permit is even needed, to other jurisdictions that have a lengthy permit process and require hiring numerous police officers for traffic control.

[QcyRunner]

I encountered resistence from the police chief my first year. I tried to work directly with him to work out details before approaching our city council. You can't believe how much I wasn't going to be able to do! Fortunately One of my XC runner's parents was a city council member and I was on various boards with other council members. And the mayor was a huge booster of our HS. Needless to say my request ended up being presented and endorsed by all and six years later all is very well. In short, it helps to have connections, especially when there are so many races starting up each year and disappearing a year later.

[Trailrunnerdude]

I think this may be the best solution - involve the municipal authorities in the race. Now, if only my municipal authorities were as forward-looking as yours...