Picnic areas are located in South Mountain Reservation, Eagle Rock Reservation, Glenfield Park, Grover Cleveland Park and Weequahic Park. Cook-outs and Barbeques are permitted in these designated areas only. No alcohol is permitted in any essex county park and amplified music is not permitted in picnic areas.

Outdoor Picnic events with minimal setup and under 20 people are allowed without a permit. Grilling is only permitted in the park locations on this Picnic Application.

Permit Information: Athletic field permits are required for use of the following athletic facilities: baseball, basketball, softball, football, soccer, cricket, lacrosse and tennis. Permit applications are accepted during the submission period and are assigned after the close of the submission period. Permits assigned following the prioritization schedule outlined on the permit application.

Please download the application for preview of fees and further guidelines.

A special event permit is required for any event or activity not defined by the athletic field or picnic area permits. Examples of activities that require a special event permit are runs, walk-a-thons, field days, fundraisers, concerts and performances. If you are unsure if your event or activity requires a special event permit, please contact the permit office.

The mobile stage measures 40 feet wide by 20 feet deep.

A filming permit is required for the taking of still or motion pictures either on film, videotape, digital or similar recording medium for commercial or education purposes intended for viewing on television the internet, in theaters, or for institutional uses. This includes major motion pictures, student films, commercial still photography, television pictures motion pictures, promotional film, and song video. 

Contact Jacquelyn Matthews for further information at: jmatthews@parks.essexcountynj.org or 973-735-6228 

Wedding Ceremony and Photography can be used at any Essex County Park with approval from the permits division. Wedding reception is not permitted in any outdoor park space. 

The Alcohol Application is only used for these locations: Bilal Beasley Community Center, Cherry Blossom Welcome Center, Feldman Middleton Community Center, Robert J.O’ Toole Community Center, Sheriff Armondo and Mary Fontoura Community Center, Verona Park Boat House (Senior Room), Wally Choice Community Center, West Side Park Community Center, Turtle Back Zoo, Cody Arena, Safari Mini Golf (Pavilion) and Kip's Castle.

Kip’s Castle is available for indoor and outdoor events. This unique venue is provided in as-is condition. During special events, the park remains open to the public.

Lisa Payne
Phone: 973-268-3500
Email: lpayne@parks.essexcountynj.org

The Clipper Pavilion is an outdoor covered picnic area at the Essex County South Mountain Recreation Complex. Capacity is limited to 150 people. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited. Parking is located across the street at the Oakdale picnic area.

Please email all completed applications to tbzbookings@parks.essexcountynj.org. For questions contact the Turtle Back Zoo Guest Relations Office - Phone: 973-731-5800 x221

The Feldman Middleton, Jr. Community Center in Weequahic Park was re-dedicated following a complete rebuild in 2021. The brand new community center features a faux gas fireplace, two televisions and round tables with seating. Floor to ceiling windows look out onto the park. Double doors open onto a patio with outdoor seating and colorful umbrellas. Capacity for this room is limited to 100 people.

The Robert J. O’Toole Community Center is located in Cedar Grove Park. The facility features a gas fireplace, kitchen serving area, tables and chairs. The community room looks out onto a covered patio and 4 bocce courts. The building is located adjacent to a large parking area and a children’s playground. The room capacity limit is 130 people. Additional images are located in the photo gallery.

The Stephen N. Adubato Community Center is located in the middle division of Branch Brook Park near the athletic complex. The center includes round tables and seating. Capacity for this room is limited to 70 people.

The Senior Room is located on the south side of the Verona Boathouse. The room looks out onto Verona Lake and is equipped with rectangular tables and seating. The capacity for this room is 50 people.

The Watsessing Park Community Center was re-dedicated in 2019 following a complete re-build. The facility features a gas fireplace, television, round tables and chairs. Capacity is limited to 30 people. Parking is located adjacent to the building and an all access children’s playground is nearby.