User fees are going into effect for groups planning to use the facilities along the Waterfront.
"There has been a free ride for a long time," said Michelle Michaud of the mayor's office.
She said city parks and recreation has had some charges, but they have been "low."
The city is joining in a contract with Friends of the Festival - the group that puts on the annual Riverbend Festival - to manage the Waterfront.
Mayor Ron Littlefield said Friends of the Festival is well-equipped to function as the Waterfront booking agency. He said the group knows the Waterfront layout well and has ties with those involved in renting tents and portable stages.
The city will pay Friends of the Festival $10,000 quarterly.
The city will get the first $40,000 in user charges, then there will be a split of the fees above $40,000.
Areas covered include Ross's Landing Park, the Chattanooga Green, the parking lots owned by the city and the Downtown Redevelopment Corporation along Riverfront Parkway, the First Street Steps, the Walnut Street Bridge, Coolidge Park and Renaissance Park.
Friends of the Festival will also put on the GoFest!