Legal Question in Securities Law in California

First, the topic heading "Securities Law" covers stocks and bonds and Wall Street-type activities, not how many private cops you need for a holiday bash. However, I'll take a crack at answering your question.

We used to do this all the time when I was in high school 50+ years ago, in another state. Student clubs would rent halls or river boats, hire bands, sell tickets, etc. I have no idea how we ever got away with it. As far as I know, there were no wrecks on the highway afterwards and no one fell overboard. The clubs were unsponsored and contrary to school rules.

I have a ton of concerns about your plan. One is whether the warehouse is safe. Warehouses are designed and maintained for storing wares, not throwing parties. Are there adequate bathrooms? Exits? Parking? Zoning? Ventilation and heating/air conditioning? Is there an occupancy limit? Fire safety? Floor strength? Exposed wiring, machinery, stair wells?

At a minimum, I would (1) get PL&PD;insurance with a high limit and with full disclosure to the insurer as to what you're doing; (2) confer with the local fire marshal; (3) hire adequate and trained crowd-control and security forces; (4) be sure your rental agreement or lease specifically allows use of the building for your true purpose.

Most communities have local ordinances requiring a permit for large gatherings.

Obviously, you'll need to be at least 18 to enter into the contracts, and I'd guess you'll need at least $20,000 of up-front cash to pay rent, insurance, cleaning crew, and other costs.