Special Event Permit

*Applications must be submitted at least 90 days prior to the event. Failure to do so may result in your application not being processed in time for your event.

Hosting a Special Event

To host an event on municipal property, it is mandatory to obtain a Special Event Permit. The permit application below must be submitted a minimum of 90 days prior to the event date, and there is a $50 application fee associated with obtaining the permit.

Applications and Forms

Special Event Permit Application Form

Tents

If you plan to have a Tent at your event, you may need to obtain a permit or complete a form. Please visit Tent Permits & Air Support Structures for more information.

Community Event Designation

An event designated by Council as an “Annual Event” hosted by a community group or organization that enhances tourism, civic pride and provides economic benefit to the community may apply for as a Community Event.

For one application fee, a designated Community Event is eligible to receive relief from applicable fees and charges, including:

Advertising of noise exemptions and/or temporary road closures;
Sign permit;
Vendors permit;
Public liability insurance for the event only (excluding alcohol, vendors, and rides) in the amount not less than two million dollars; and
One day community centre rental for fundraising purposes.

The application fee for an event with a Community Event Designation is:

$200.00 for events with an expected attendance of up to 1,000 people
$350.00 for events with an expected attendance of over 1,001 people

Policies and Resources

FAQ

What is a Special Event Permit?

A special event permit is required for events taking place on municipal property or events that use municipal services.

What events require a Special Event Permit?

A special event is a festival or fair, a procession or march, a drill, a parade, a celebration or wedding, or other organized event that is hosted on municipal property and includes any of the following components:

Rides/activities
Street closures
Fireworks or lasers
Traffic control
Need for security
Use of elevated stages or other temporary structures
Live entertainment
Barbeques/Open flames
Generators/electrical distribution
Food or beverage sale
Shooting of films, television commercials or videos
Competitive or non-competitive operation of motorized and/or non-motorized vehicles

Does my event require a Special Event Permit if held on private property?

No. If your event is entirely on private property, you will not need a Special Event Permit. However, you may still need to apply for exemptions to the Noise Control By-law, temporary road closures, a tent permit, and/or a special occasion permit issued by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario.

Does my event require a Special Event Permit if held on municipal property?

Yes. If your event is partially or entirely held on municipal property, or uses municipal services and falls under the category of a special event you require a Special Event Permit and it must be submitted 90 days prior to the event date.

There are exclusions to the Special Event Permit including funeral processions, picketing and picnics.

What events do not require a Special Event Permit?

Events that do not require a special event permit include funeral processions, picketing, and picnics. If your event is entirely on private property, you may not need a special event permit, but you may need to apply for exemptions for certain by-laws or permits.

What locations can I host my event at?

The Township of Lake of Bays offers many charming locations to host events, including beaches, pavilions, and parks. You can also host an event by booking one of our community centres.

Can I Serve Alcohol at my Event?

If you are planning on serving or selling alcohol at your event, you may need a special occasions permit issued by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO).

For an event on municipal property that involves the selling or serving of alcohol, we will need a copy of your Host Liquor Liability insurance, in the amount not less than two million dollars, listing the Township as an additional insured and a copy of the issued special occasions permit prior to approving your special event permit with alcohol.

When should I submit my Special Event Permit application?

You should submit your application at least 90 days prior to your event.

What is the application fee for a Special Event Permit?

Special Event Permit application fee is $50.00
Community Event Designated special events have an application fee of:
- $200.00 for events with an expected attendance of up to 1,000 people
- $350.00 for events with an expected attendance of over 1,001 people

The Township accepts cash, cheque, debit and e-tranfers. Cheques are payable to the “Township of Lake of Bays”.

How do I submit my special event permit application?

Please complete the Special Event Permit Application Form

Do I need to provide proof of insurance for my event?

Yes, you will need to provide proof of public liability insurance in the amount not less than two million dollars (listing the Township as an additional insured) or purchase coverage through the Township.

Township of Lake of Bays
1012 Dwight Beach Rd
Dwight, ON P0A 1H0
705-635-2272
1-877-566-0005