Events & Venues FAQ

The following list DOES NOT constitute a COMPLETE set of the Rules and Regulations governing the Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve. You may request a complete set of the Rules and Regulations at the Park Office during business hours. It is your responsibility to know and follow the rules and regulations at this facility.

How do I make a reservation?

Please come in or call the Park Office at (619) 596-3141 to make a reservation.  You can download the Facility Reservation & Use Agreement and bring with you or mail it to:  Santee Lakes, 9310 Fanita Pkwy., Santee, CA 92071.

How long in advance can I make a reservation?

Reservations can be made one year in advance.

I have a large group (300+), where can I have my party?

Groups of 300 or more must reserve all of Lake 1 (Areas A-D, Gazebo 1) or all of North Lake 5 (Areas Q-V, Gazebo 3), plus applicable fees.

What is the cancellation policy?

Fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. The exception is rain as determined by park staff on day of event.

Do you have a cleaning deposit?

A cleaning deposit will be required for all groups up to the same amount paid for the reservation.

What is your alcohol policy?

Visitors can bring alcohol to enjoy on weekends only.  No Kegs allowed.

Visitors shall not be permitted on Park premises while intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.  There is no smoking or vaping in the Day Use area of the Park.

What is the music/sound policy? May I have a band at my event?

Amplifying sound equipment can only be used in reserved areas with prior approval of the District. Payment of applicable permit fees is required. The noise level of any amplified sound shall not cause unreasonable discomfort or annoyance to other Park visitors, or to any persons within hearing range outside the Park. At no time shall the ambient noise level exceed fifty (50) decibels at a distance of 50 feet from the source. Live bands not permitted.

May I set off fireworks?

Visitors shall not possess or discharge any firearms, other weapons or fireworks, or any other article of an explosive nature within the Park. Visitors shall not possess or use any archery equipment, darts, or other projectiles within the Park.

Do you require liability insurance?

Event liability insurance will be required for corporate parties and/or picnics of 300 guests or more; OR of any picnic/party as deemed necessary in the judgment of the Park Manager. Ask Park Staff for details.

What if I use a vendor that is not on the "Approved Vendor List"?

Santee Lakes has an Approved Vendor List for insurance and safety purposes. A non-compliance citation will be given to this permit holder if vendors, not on the Santee Lakes Approved Vendor List, are providing service to this function, on park property, without District approval and/or without having provided the District with proof of liability insurance. Payments and Deposits are due at the time of reservation.

If your vendor is interested in becoming an Approved Vendor, please refer to the Vendor Rules and Regulations to find out more.

Can I sell goods or services at my event?

Visitors shall not engage in soliciting, selling, or peddling any goods or services, or distribute any circulars in the Park, without prior approval of the District.

Please note: Santee Lakes reserves the right to use any photograph/video taken at any event sponsored by Santee Lakes, without the expressed written permission of those included within the photograph/video. Santee Lakes may use the photograph/video in publications or other media material produced, including but not limited to: brochures, invitations, newspapers, magazines, television, websites, etc. Thanks!