Wake County EMS provides medical coverage for many large public gatherings each year. We may offer EMS coverage for some smaller events, but we're not able to offer coverage for all events. Regardless, we will be there quickly for any emergent need at any special event in Wake County with a call to 9-1-1.
If you are seeking community outreach or public relations visits please navigate to the EMS Community Outreach page.
For Private Event Organizers
Submit a request via the Citizen Portal button below at least two weeks prior to your event. Weekend events require a minimum of one month notice, and weekday events require a minimum of two weeks notice. It's never too early to request. Avoid dates that include major public events in Wake County.
See important coverage information and fee schedule below.
Important Information on Special Event EMS Coverage
There are more events in Wake County than we can cover without negatively impacting 9-1-1 operations. We consider the following criteria in determining whether we will offer EMS coverage:
- 2,500+ event participants
- High risk factors for participants
- Total event crowd size
- Traffic impedance caused by the event (e.g., major road closures)
- Availability of EMS personnel
- Impact of the event on 9-1-1 operations
If We Are Able To Offer Coverage
We will determine what type of EMS resources we need to cover the event (ambulances, bike team, cart, supervisor, etc.). These are operational decisions that we make based on what we determine is needed to provide coverage.
If you make your request through the online portal, you will receive an email confirming dedicated EMS coverage for your event, the type of EMS resources used, and an estimate of the total costs, which are based on rates set by the Wake County commissioners.
Wake County Finance Department will mail an invoice after the event. Occasionally, single events may require pre-payment based on estimated costs prior to the event.
Unfortunately, we are unable to donate services for nonprofit and/or fundraising events.
EMS special event coverage is intended for individual patient evaluation, treatment and/or transportation to an emergency department. It is beyond the scope of EMS to provide "first aid station" services such as mass supply of pain medicine for headaches, multiple ice packs or elastic bandages, other medical supply handouts, bottled water, etc.
Coverage Fee Schedule
Ambulance, two staff: $180/hour
Bike or cart team, two staff: $145/hour
Venue foot team, two staff: $105/hour
A supervisor or medical branch director: $80/hour
EMS coverage types are posted to publish hourly rates for a given asset. EMS will evaluate the venue, the activity, and operational logistics to determine which assets are used based on a tactical approach to providing EMS coverage.
Organizers should anticipate a 3% rate increase each July 1.
The above rates were updated on July 1, 2023.
Contact Information for Special Events
Candice Carter
Assistant Chief of Special Operations
EMSevents@wake.gov
candice.carter@wake.gov