Civic Events Application Process
Applications must be submitted to Civic Events at least 6 weeks prior to the event date. The application processing time varies according to the complexity of the event and level of civic services required. Smaller events may be approved in a shorter time frame while larger, more complex events take longer to review, process and approve.
Be prepared to provide the following information on the Civic Events Application Form:
- Event location (such as parkland, open spaces, mixed-use trails, roadways, sidewalks)
- Event dates and times including set up and take down time required
- Type of event
- Basic contact information
- Event website, if applicable
Submitting an application does not imply that your event is approved. Do not advertise your event until you have received confirmation from the City of Edmonton.
Stages of the Application Process
Application Form Selection Tool
Please use the selection tool below to ensure you are completing the appropriate application based on the preferred location.
Community groups are invited to recognize their cause, celebrate and build community spirit in Edmonton. Options include:
- Submit a request to Light the Bridge for consideration
- Request a special proclamation, letter, certificate, or a unique message from the Mayor
- Submit a Bridge Banner Program Application for consideration
Preliminary Review and Assignment
Once an application is submitted, it will be reviewed, and you will be contacted by a City Liaison who will determine the next steps specific to your request.
Events are booked in the following priority:
- Historical/annual/recurring events with same date(s)/timeframe and location as previous year
- Historical/annual/recurring events with new date/location request
- New event requests
Information Gathering
If the requested date and location are available, you will receive a Confirmation of Use from your assigned City Liaison. Alternatives will be discussed if the requested location is not available or unable to support the size and scope of the event. Once you have received the Confirmation of Use, you may begin advertising your event.
The City Liaison will provide you with a Checklist of Requirements and provide guidance for which permits and services may be required. Cost estimates for relevant services and permits will be provided.
If at any point, up to and including the day of the event, you fail to provide the required permits and licenses, or fail any required inspections, all or a portion of the event may be cancelled.
Important Information for Event Organizers
A Certificate of Insurance and Event Emergency Response Plan are mandatory for all events.
Certificate of Insurance
Events held on public property must provide a minimum of $2 Million liability coverage with the City of Edmonton listed as an “Additional Insured”. Depending on the size and scope of your event, additional liability coverage may be required. The following mailing address is to be used on the Certification of Insurance:
City of Edmonton
9th Floor, Chancery Hall
3 Sir Winston Churchill Square
Edmonton, Alberta
Canada T5J 2C3
Event Emergency Response Plan
The plan must outline risk mitigation and emergency response to ensure the safety of participants, staff, volunteers, and property. The plan must be proportional to the scope and scale of the event. An Event Emergency Response Plan assists in:
- Identifying potential risks
- Identifying measures to be put in place for the safety and wellbeing of the public and event volunteers, staff and vendors
- Reducing the risk of loss of life and property damage
Additional Civic Services
There may be costs associated with civic services required for your event. Civic services include (but are not limited to):
- Traffic materials to support road closures
- Policing (including Peace Officers, Park Rangers, Edmonton Police Service (EPS), parking and bylaw enforcement)
- Edmonton Transit Services (ETS) detours and/or charters
- Permits (building, electrical, gas, plumbing, business development, parking, open air burning, fireworks or fire performer)
- Alberta Health Services Inspections
Contact Us
Civic Events and Festivals Section
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| Telephone | In Edmonton: 311 Outside Edmonton: 780-442-5311 |
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Before you email us: Please visit Neighbourhood Events to book neighbourhood gatherings or block parties. Civic Events and Festivals can only assist you with events taking place on roadways, or in plazas/squares, River Valley parks or Borden Park. |