You can't just throw together a big event at your local park just because it's "open to the public". Often, you'll need a permit.
You may think getting a permit is a bother, but it is often the best way to get cheap advice from people who are pros at making events successful. Whether it's crowd control, parking, insurance, etc., the permitting process makes sure you haven't overlooked something that could cause you grief.
Moreover, it's a law. Without a permit, you could see your event shut down and be fined as well.
The City of Huntington Beach takes an active role in promoting your event through the Conference and Visitors Center. The first step is to call Naida Osline at (714) 374-1661 for information about getting a permit for your event in Huntington Beach.
The County of Orange grants about 5,000 event permits each year. They have dozens of permits, depending on what kind of an event you have in mind and where you plan to have it. The vast amount of information on that may eventually make its way to the Internet, but for now, you simply have to call (714) 834-5707 to start the process.
You can save time by looking over the following common application forms. The forms will give you a checklist to consider. You can also print them out and submit them to the County if they turn out to be right forms for you.