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Reservation Time

• The Parks Center will not be accessible before the start of the reservation time.
• All setup and cleanup must occur within the reserved time.
• Fees apply if reservation time is exceeded.
• Latest end time: 12:00 AM, except New Year’s Eve (2:00 AM).

Payment

• A $50 membership fee is now part of the deposit. 
• All payments are non-refundable.
• The down payment includes half of the Space Rental Fee. If the full payment is not made by the final payment due date, the event will be subject to cancellation.

Enhanced Insurance Requirements

• All caterers and event producers must list Washington Parks & People as an additional insured party.

Capacity

• The maximum capacity of the Parks Center is 300.
• The Ballroom accommodates 225 standing or 150 seated for dinner.
• For guest counts exceeding 150 seated with tables, the South Gallery can provide additional seating for 50 guests.

Catering

• The Center is equipped with a warming kitchen and kitchenette.
• A Preferred Caterer List is available. Use of Non- preferred Caterers requires prior approval from WPP Staff.
• All caterers must complete the provided Cleaning Checklist and are fully responsible for cleanup.
• The Parks Center Event Host will oversee that all cleaning tasks are completed.

Setup & Cleanup: 

• Our team ensures the initial setup matches your vision, while vendors handle cleanup under eco-friendly guidelines.

Candles

• Candle flames must be shorter than the vessel holding them.
• All candles must be contained (e.g., in a hurricane vessel or on a tray/mirror) to prevent wax damage.
• Candles can be lit in the fireplaces.
• Residual wax cleanup will incur additional fees
• .Noise Ordinance Compliance: Adherence to D.C.’s noise regulations is mandatory, with support from on-site Event Hosts.

Smoking

• Smoking is prohibited inside the Parks Center, including the Terrace and Front Walkway.
• Smoking is allowed in designated areas outside, and cigarette disposal must be appropriate.

Doorways

• Do not block doors with equipment or prop open unattended entry doors ($100 penalty per instance).

Alcohol

• A DC Liquor License from the Alcoholic Beverage Regulation Administration (ABRA) is required for alcohol service.
• Alcohol must not be served or distributed by anyone under 21.
• Many preferred caterers hold liquor licenses.

Attachments to Walls

• Use only painter’s tape or 3M Damage-Free adhesive.
• Tacks, nails, or other adhesives are prohibited.
• Wall damage may result in the withholding of the damage deposit.

Noise Levels

• Noise must not exceed 60 dB between 8:00 AM and 10:00 PM and 55 dB after 10:00 PM, per DC regulations.
• Loudspeakers must face away from windows and building walls.
• An Event Host will monitor noise levels and may shut off music if warnings are ignored.

Insurance

• Washington Parks & People must be listed as an additional insured on the caterer or event producer’s General Liability Insurance policy for the event duration.

Prohibited

• Confetti of any kind
• Lit candles on the carpeted staircase
• Drilling holes in walls or marble
• Smoking on the Terrace or inside the building
• Dragging furniture across hardwood floors
• Placing liquid items on the piano

Appropriate Activity

• Event producers must ensure the Center is used safely, responsibly, and lawfully. Non-compliance may result in removal from the premises.

Piano

• A Baby Grand Piano is available on the 2nd Floor. It can be moved between the Ballroom, 2nd Floor Foyer, and South Gallery but not to the 1st Floor.

Moving Furniture

• Do not drag furniture across wood floors.
• Heavy equipment or furniture can only be moved with a WPP staff member present.

Trash and Recycling

• The Josephine Butler Parks Center will provide 2 trash bins and 2 recycling bins. 
• Caterers must bring any additional trash/recycling bins and bags needed.
• All trash and recycling must be disposed of in the proper bins in the dumpster area.

Remaining Decor & Alcohol

• All items must be removed by the end of the Contracted Event Block.
• The Parks Center is not responsible for any left or missing items.