As Park City gears up for the annual Sundance Film Festival, city officials have published the comprehensive 'Rules of the Road' document, detailing the regulations and permitting processes for businesses looking to operate during the event. This year's festival, scheduled from January 22 to February 1, will also mark the last time the event is held in Park City before relocating to Boulder, Colorado, in 2027. The document serves not only as a guide for businesses but also provides insight into the city’s regulatory framework, which is particularly pertinent during the bustling festival period. City Hall has a long history of regulating activities across the Main Street core and other areas year-round. However, the rules become especially significant during Sundance as corporations, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions flood into the town, setting up temporary installations to take advantage of the festival's exposure. The document outlines various requirements aimed at ensuring safety, compliance, and a smooth operation for both temporary and permanent businesses. The 'Rules of the Road' document is crucial for businesses wishing to participate in Sundance. It emphasizes the importance of obtaining the necessary permits from the Marsac Building, the city’s administrative hub. Permits cover a range of activities, including crowd management, loading and unloading of products, and special licenses required for promotional events. According to the document, “This guide is intended to help navigate the permit processes and frequently asked questions regarding regulations during the Sundance Film Festival.” In recent years, the number of corporate participants has seen fluctuations, particularly following two consecutive years of pandemic-related cancellations of the in-person festival. While the festival typically draws numerous corporations eager to showcase their products and services, the overall participation has declined. Many businesses rent storefronts and restaurants in the Main Street area, transforming them into vibrant product showcases to attract festival-goers. The rules also address the types of businesses permitted to operate in the Main Street area, particularly with regard to chain establishments. The document notes that a cap has been reached on the number of chain businesses allowed along Main Street, limiting expansion for new entrants. It specifies what qualifies as a conventional chain business—those with standardized branding and operations across multiple locations—helping interested parties understand whether their business plans align with municipal regulations. One significant regulation outlined in the Rules of the Road is the requirement for a convention sales license, which is necessary for any marketing, promotion, gifting, or signage at events during the festival. The licensing process includes pre-application discussions, approval from the Park City Council, and a final inspection. Notably, the document stresses that “activations are not allowed in residential units,” and private parties also require specific permits. Additionally, the regulations detail the requirements for crowd management and loading/unloading permits. These permits are crucial for any business that needs to utilize parking spaces for operational purposes in the Main Street core area. The rules clearly state that loading activities are not permitted until January 20, with unloading not starting until January 27, to ensure the area remains accessible and safe for pedestrians and other visitors. During the festival's opening days, Main Street becomes bustling with activity as crews work to set up temporary installations. These setups often require the relocation of goods from year-round tenants, who have to wait until after the festival to reclaim their spaces. As the city prepares for the influx of visitors, the Rules of the Road are a vital tool for ensuring that the festival operates smoothly and that businesses comply with local regulations. The upcoming Sundance Film Festival is expected to attract a significant crowd, with the number of temporary setups typically peaking during the first four days when foot traffic is highest. For businesses eager to capitalize on this opportunity, understanding and adhering to the outlined regulations is imperative to avoid potential penalties and ensure a successful festival experience. As this year’s festival approaches, Park City officials remind all participants and businesses to familiarize themselves with the Rules of the Road. The full document is accessible online at the municipal website, parkcity.gov, providing essential information for anyone looking to engage in business during this iconic event. With the 2026 festival marking the final chapter of Sundance in Park City, the city is preparing for a bittersweet farewell to an event that has defined its winter landscape for decades. As participants set their sights on this year’s festivities, the community remains hopeful for a successful conclusion to its long-standing relationship with the Sundance Film Festival.