What is Primary Entertainment?

Primary Entertainment means entertainment provided at an entertainment business where the main reason for persons attending is to observe and/or participate in the entertainment offered at the business, and admission to the business is charged either separately, as part of a cover charge, or there is a minimum food or beverage purchase requirement.  

• Examples of Primary Entertainment include: shows; plays; skits, karaoke; dance productions; concerts; arcade games; amusement devices (pinball machines, video games, etc.), adult cabarets, and others. Refer to the code section at the link below for a complete list.

How long is an Entertainment Permit good for?

Entertainment Permits are good for one year and must be renewed annually.

What type of entertainment does not require a permit?

• Also known as Incidental Entertainment, permits are not required for the use of radio, television, or music recording devices or juke boxes in any business when used for background only.
• Non-amplified live performances by a performer or performers is also considered Incidental.
• Not included is when devices are used by a disc jockey, in conjunction with karaoke, or in connection with dancing by patrons. 

When are Entertainment Permits not required?

Entertainment permits are not required at private events (where it is not open to the public and limited to specific guests) and at events sponsored by government agencies, religious organizations, and non-profits.

Is a permit required for a single event?

Yes. A Single Event Entertainment Permit is required if an event is being held at a qualifying business.

What are the permit fees?

See the Entertainment Permit Application for permit fees.

How do I apply for an Entertainment Permit?

The application process includes the completion of a Entertainment Permit Application and payment of a permit fee. See the Entertainment Permit Application for permit fees.

• To pay the permit fee, contact our Finance Department by calling (650) 522-7100 or visiting in person at City Hall located at 330 W. 20th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94401. Once you have paid the fee, you will be given a receipt that will need to be submitted with your completed application. 
• NOTE: Depending on the type of business where the event will be held, you may be required to submit additional documents (State Alcohol Beverage Control License, County of San Mateo Environmental Health Permit, Site Drawings, etc.).
• Once all fees have been paid, you will need to submit your completed application no later than 4 weeks in advance for Single Events or the expiration of an annual permit. 
• Submit your completed application and other materials (payment receipt, etc.) by email to police@cityofsanmateo.org.

What happens after I submit my application?

• A Police Department representative will contact you to discuss your application and conditions of the permit.
• Police staff will conduct an area/neighborhood check of businesses and community locations in the area for their input.
• You may also be contacted by the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department. Fire staff will conduct a fire inspection before approving your application. 

San Mateo Municipal Code

It is the purpose of the Chapter 5.43 ENTERTAINMENT BUSINESSES code to provide for the issuance and maintenance of Entertainment Permits to regulate primary entertainment events, along with charges and procedures required to administer the permit process.