If you were planning a big street party this summer, it’s not going to happen.
Mayor Bill de Blasio announced Thursday that large events requiring a city permit will be canceled through the end of September.
De Blasio said the city will not issue permits for any events in any locations that interfere with the city’s Open Streets or Open Restaurants programs. The city will also deny permits for any event larger than one block or stage, or for video events that require sound amplification.
That means no street fairs and no events in the city’s parks that could take away from the public use of the space.
In his statement, the mayor talked about the importance of free space for the city’s residents as they continue to fight the coronavirus pandemic.
“As New York has begun its reopening process, accessible open spaces are more important than ever,” he said. “While it pains me to call off some of the city’s beloved events, our focus now must be the prioritization of city space for public use and the continuation of social distancing.”
The city has closed nearly 70 miles of streets throughout the five boroughs to allow people to social distance outside. Restaurants have also been allowed to expand outdoor seating areas into the city’s streets to allow for more diners while indoor dining is not permitted.
The mayor said events that would not conflict with these spaces, along with outdoor events that would take up less than a block, will be allowed to apply for permits. Applicants would have to present a plan for reducing the risk of spreading COVID-19.
Demonstrations, religious events and press conferences are also exempt from the rule.