Event Planning Permit Requirements in Shreveport, LA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a event planning in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, Louisiana.

Updated 2026-03-16 6 stops $100–$400 est. 2–4 weeks to obtain business license and state registrations; allow 4–8 weeks if you need special event permits for client events in public spaces
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if operating as a business entity (LLC or corporation) or if you have employees. Free from the IRS. You will need an EIN to open a business bank account and sign vendor contracts professionally.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Louisiana

2 stops

  1. Louisiana Business Registration

    Event planning businesses operating in Louisiana must register with the Louisiana Secretary of State if operating as an LLC, corporation, or partnership. Sole proprietors using a trade name must file a DBA registration with the state or parish clerk. An LLC provides personal liability protection, which is especially important when coordinating large events.

    Official government source

    $25–$125 (varies by entity type)1–7 business days (online)

  2. Louisiana Sales Tax Permit (if applicable)

    Event planning coordination services are generally not subject to sales tax in Louisiana, but if your business sells taxable items — such as event supplies, decorations, floral arrangements, or other tangible goods — you must collect and remit state sales tax. Some states specifically tax event planning or entertainment services. Confirm your obligations with the Louisiana Department of Revenue.

    Official government source

    Free–$25Immediate (online)

City of Shreveport / Caddo Parish

3 stops

  1. Shreveport General Business License

    Event planning businesses operating in Shreveport must obtain a general business license from the city. The application requires your business entity information, primary business address, and description of services. If you work primarily from home coordinating events elsewhere, a home occupation permit may also be required. Renewed annually.

    Official government source

    $30–$150/year1–2 weeks

  2. Shreveport Special Event Permit (for events in public spaces)

    When coordinating events that use Shreveport public parks, streets, plazas, or other public venues, a Special Event Permit is required from the city. As the event planner, you may be responsible for obtaining this permit on behalf of your client. Permit requirements typically include event details, expected attendance, proof of general liability insurance ($1M minimum), and sometimes a site plan or traffic management plan.

    Official government source

    $50–$500 depending on event size, venue, and city fee schedule2–6 weeks (apply at least 30 days in advance for most events; 60+ days for large events)

  3. Caddo Parish Temporary Use / Special Event Permit (if applicable)

    Events held on unincorporated Caddo Parish land outside city limits, or large outdoor events on private property in the parish, may require a Temporary Use Permit from the parish. This is separate from any city permit. Requirements include proof of insurance, site plan, and sanitation provisions for large gatherings.

    $75–$3502–4 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $100–$400 · 2–4 weeks to obtain business license and state registrations; allow 4–8 weeks if you need special event permits for client events in public spaces

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Official Sources

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