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Before you Apply
Do you know where, when, and what type of event? basic contact info Before you get started, review the following resources.
<<Image box about Event Spaces>> - Learn about the spaces available for events, including their sizes, features, amenities and restrictions.
<<Image box about Categories>> Determine your event type (A, B or C) – this will help us to ensure we have enough time and information to make your event a success.
Note: bookings for events in parks are handled by the North Vancouver Recreation and Culture Commission. For more information please visit their website: www.nvrc.ca/facilities-fields/book-park-or-plaza
Book your Event
Applications must be received at least 6 weeks prior to your estimated event date. The application processing time may vary according to the complexity and level of civic services required. Time required to consider, plan and approve your event depends on the time of year and complexity of your proposal. Please wait for a response from City of North Vancouver before advertising or promoting your event.
Stages of the Application Process
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Step 1 - Prepare – review this guide and start to prepare the information required to support your application.
Step 2 – Submit the application form – complete the online application form. After you submit your application, your request will be assigned to the appropriate City Staff member to guide you through the process.
Step 3 – Preliminary Assessment - Your preliminary application is assessed by the City’s Events Team. If the event is suitable for the site and available on the proposed date/s then you will receive conditional, preliminary approval.
Step 4 – Required Information/Documents Submitted - Prepare and submit the information and evidence of permits required (see event requirements below)
Step 5 – Sign Agreement/Contract - Once all required information is received and approved, you will receive a formal agreement/contract. This document will outline your responsibilities before, on and after your event.
Step 6 – Payment - Pay for your permit(s) and additional costs that may apply (such as RCMP cost recovery if required) in advance of your event date.
Step 7 – Permit/Agreement Issued - Host an incredible event!
Application Requirements
In your initial application you will need to provide:
- Certificate of Insurance
- City of North Vancouver Business License
- WorkSafe BC clearance
- Event Safety and Security Plan
- detailed overview of your proposed event activities and elements
- a site map (including infrastructure you may be proposing)
- Payment of permit/licence fees and damage deposits as per the relevant policy
Depending on the type/category of event, additional required documents may need to be provided. Additional information, permits and approvals are determined on a case by case basis.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book a public space for an event?
What category does my event fall under?
Determine your event type (A, B or C) – this will help us to ensure we have enough time and information to make your event a success.
Does your event propose/require any of the following?
- utilising more than 50% the venue (or more than one space at The Shipyards)
- attendance of more than 500 people
- road closures (excluding Wallace Mews at The Shipyards)
- large structures (e.g. stages, tents larger than 10’x10’)
- liquor and/or food service
- live music/bands with amplified sound
- use of fire or propane
- take place on a significant date (e.g. a stat holiday)
- takes place over multiple days (consecutive and not, including bump in/out periods)
- reoccurring over multiple years
- ·other activities or infrastructure which might pose a level of risk not normally expected with the use of a public space
If No, none of the above - Type A - small, low impact event
If Yes to 3 or less - Type B – medium impact event
If Yes to 4 of more – Type C – high impact/significance event
What happens after I submit my Civic Events application to the City?
This is my first time producing an event. What help can Civic Events provide?
Do I need event insurance?
What should I include in my Event Safety and Security Plan?
Can I serve or sell alcohol at my event?
For an event with liquor in City public spaces, or for events that have over 500 persons, please complete the Application Form for Occupant Load Determination. It should be submitted with a floor plan of the event.
Learn more on the Fire Department's Commercial & Events page, or contact the Fire Prevention Officer at 604-980-5021.
Please allow at least ten working days for the Fire Department to respond to your application.
Do I need to apply for any licences or permits?
• If a road closure is proposed; a traffic management plan and Street Use Permit (link)
• If over 500 people attending; an Occupant Load Certificate from the City Fire Department (link – occupant load determination)
• If generators are proposed to be utilized; an electrical permit (link to electrical permit application form)
- For all food vendors cooking on site; certificate of Insurance and City of North Vancouver Business License, and Vancouver Coastal Health permit
- If liquor service is proposed; City Special Event Liquor License approval including an Occupant Load; and confirmation of the Provincial Special Event Liquor Permit;
What civic services are available to support my event?
What happens if the public space damage happens at my event?
What bylaws and regulations should I be aware of and follow?
How do I renew an annual festival or event?
Can I promote my event on the City website?
- The City’s online Community Events Calendar is a free resource to promote your community event - submit your event online.
How do I organize a protest, rally, march or demonstration?
Contact Us
City Events and Community Liasson
Email: bookings@cnv.org
Tel: 604-982-8383