Neighbourhood Parks & Open Spaces

Planning a neighbourhood event

Neighbourhood Services provides support to citizens, community groups and event organizers who are coordinating activities on neighbourhood parkland.

What is a Neighbourhood Event?

Events that are held within community or district parks are considered neighbourhood events. They range from simple gatherings such as birthday parties, picnics and weddings to niche events or festivals organized for the entire neighbourhood or district-wide audience.

The City recognizes the significant role that social gatherings and community events have in connecting Edmontonians. These activities contribute to Edmonton being seen as a world leader in neighbouring efforts. We support these activities through licensing and guidelines for using public spaces.

Please Note:

A $22/hour booking fee will be applied for niche festivals and events up to 1000 attendees. For events with more than 1000 attendees, additional fees may apply.

Understanding the important role neighbourhood events play in creating strong and vibrant communities, this fee will be waived for Community League events, free public events and fundraisers with a direct neighbourhood connection.

Ready to Apply?

The application process follows 3 basic steps.

Step 1 - Before Applying to Use a Park or Greenspace

Select the neighbourhood where you want to hold your event.
Consider which community or district park you will use.
Identify the date and time for your event. Consider setup and take down time.
Determine which activities you plan to include.
Identify your audience. Will it be a public or private event? Will you charge admission?
Estimate how many people will attend.
Private or ticketed events up to 1000 attendees may be subject to a $22 per hour booking fee. For events with more than 1000 attendees, additional fees may apply.

Step 2 - Submit an Application

Complete the online form and include as much information as you have available.
Applications take 4-6 weeks to process. For larger neighbourhood events, we recommend submitting your application at least 8 weeks prior to your start date.
Submitting an application does not imply that your event is approved or that your proposed location or date are confirmed.
All events held in a park or on City of Edmonton property require proof of at least $2 million general liability insurance with the City of Edmonton listed as an “Additional Insured”.
Generally, vehicles are not allowed off of designated public roadways and parking areas. All vehicle access, including for equipment drop off and pick up, must be approved prior to the neighbourhood event. A Vehicle Access Fee of $46.80 will be issued for events that require a vehicle to remain on parkland during the event.
Applications for private or ticketed events may be subject to a $22 per hour booking fee.

Step 3 - Work with a Neighbourhood Resource Coordinator to Complete Your License

Following the review of your application, a Neighbourhood Resource Coordinator will contact you to confirm the location, share any guidelines or restrictions and explain necessary approvals, fees and licenses.

Important Notes

All groups and organizations, at your own expense, must obtain and maintain throughout the duration of the event general liability insurance in an amount not less than two million dollars ($2,000,000.00) per occurrence for death, bodily injury, property damage, and personal injury. This insurance policy must be endorsed to add the City of Edmonton as third party additionally insured.
Use of parkland must be in accordance with Parkland Bylaw 2202.
Parkland is for public use and a license does not grant exclusive use.
Depending on the scope of the event, additional event requirements may be identified.
Any damage to parkland and/or amenities is the responsibility of the licensee.
The City conducts its operations in accordance with Environmental Policy C512 . All users of parkland are required to conduct their operations and activities in accordance with Environmental Policy C512 and all applicable provincial and federal legislation.

For More Information

Neighbourhood Events

Telephone	In Edmonton: 311 Outside Edmonton: 780-442-5311
Online	Contact 311 Online

TTY	780-944-5555
Email	neighbourhoodevents@edmonton.ca

TTY

780-944-5555

neighbourhoodevents@edmonton.ca

Neighbourhood Parks & Open Spaces

What is a Neighbourhood Event?

Ready to Apply?

Neighbourhood Event Application Form

2023 Booking Rates*

Other Planning Resources

Using Neighbourhood Parkland

Neighbourhood Funding for Events, Programs and Initiatives

Plan an Event - Frequently Asked Questions

EFCL Recreational Equipment Rental Program

For More Information

Neighbourhood Events