Guide · Updated October 14, 2026
Event Permits and Porta Potties in Cortez and Montezuma County
Where to apply, what the restroom part of the plan should say, and how to size units before you submit.
Does a Cortez event need a permit?
A public event in a City of Cortez park, street or public space needs a special event application through the city. A private party on private land usually does not. Events on county land or county roads go through Montezuma County, and events serving alcohol need a special event liquor permit.
Official pages: City of Cortez special events, Montezuma County special event liquor license. Rules change, so confirm requirements and lead times with the office before you plan.
What should the restroom part of an event plan include?
The restroom part of an event plan should list the number of porta potties, how many are wheelchair-accessible, the number of hand washing stations, where they will sit on the site map, and who services them. A written quote from your rental company is usually enough proof of the order.
- Total units and accessible units (at least 5% per cluster, minimum 1)
- Hand washing stations near food vendors
- Site map showing locations and truck access
- Service schedule for multi-day events
- Rental company name and phone
How many porta potties should a Cortez park event list?
A Cortez park event should list 1 porta potty per 50 guests for up to 4 hours, 1 per 35 for 5 to 8 hours, plus 1 for every 4 if alcohol is served. A 400-person, 5-hour festival with beer needs 12 standard units plus 3 for alcohol, and at least 1 of the 15 must be accessible.
Run your numbers in the porta potty calculator.
Do park restrooms count toward the total?
Existing park restrooms can count toward your total if they are open, stocked and close to the event area. Ask the parks office whether the building will be open for your hours. Many organizers still add porta potties because park restrooms close early or have only a few stalls.