When planning an event, a vital but frequently overlooked aspect of that event is accommodating parking. This is especially true when converting a space not normally used for parking into temporary parking. The following steps will help you organize the parking situation so that it is orderly and safe.

• Determine where the parking area will be. The parking area must be easily accessible from the event location. Have a clear estimate of the number of expected attendees. Your parking lot should be able to hold at least half that number. If you have a long event, like an all-day street festival, where people come and go on their own schedule, a third will suffice, although more is better than less.
• Clearly mark the parking area. If it’s very large, number a few “zones” so people can easily locate your car on the way out. Determine and label one or more handicapped parking areas. Make sure the area is wheelchair friendly and clearly marked.
• Designate a charging zone. Most events have professional delivery trucks and special equipment needs. Designate the best area for downloading. Block off this area so event attendees do not park there. In an emergency, this can also serve as a parking space for emergency workers such as firefighters or EMTs. Be sure to clearly mark the loading zone and communicate its location to delivery personnel, so that caterers and delivery vans do not create congestion in other parts of the parking lot.
• Determine the best way to have the flow of traffic. Will the parking lot have one-way alleys or will they be wide enough to accommodate two vehicles? Once again, clearly mark the direction traffic should flow, as well as exits and entrances. Designate areas where pedestrians will be able to walk. The key to an orderly lot is clearly telling drivers and pedestrians what is expected.
• Hire parking attendants. Each attendee must wear a bright color