Planning a Special Event in Central Elgin

Whether you are organizing a festival, parade, fundraiser, community gathering, race, or other public event, the Municipality of Central Elgin is here to help guide you through the planning and approval process.

This page provides information on permits, applications, road closures, insurance requirements, health and safety considerations, and other approvals that may be required when hosting an event within the municipality. Event organizers are encouraged to contact the Municipality early in the planning process to help ensure a safe, successful, and well-coordinated event.

The Municipality of Central Elgin recognizes the important role special events play in enhancing community life, celebrating local culture, supporting recreation and education, attracting visitors, and contributing to the local economy. We are committed to working with organizers to create memorable events that are safe, accessible, and enjoyable for participants, residents, and visitors alike.

 What is considered a special event?
A Special Event is a one-time, annual, or infrequently occurring event on or involving use of Municipality of Central Elgin property that is reserved for exclusive use, or involving activities regulated through Municipal Licensing that are otherwise not permitted; is open to the public; raises the Municipality’s profile; and provides economic and cultural benefit to the Municipality. A Special Event can include use and rental of arenas, parks, streets, parking lots, and roadways. 

 
When is a permit required? 

You must submit a Special Event Permit Application if:

You wish to hold your event on any outdoor property owned or operated by the Municipality of Central Elgin. This includes:

• Roads / road allowances (street festivals, parades, and races)

• Parks and parkettes

• Parking lots

• Walkways, pathways, and trails

• Arenas and Community Centres • All other municipal open and public spaces And there will be any of the following:

• Food being given or sold to the general public at an event open to the public

• Food Trucks

• Sale or consumption of alcohol at an event open to the public

• Sound amplification

• Tents larger than 60m2 (Note: Building Permit and Fire Safety Plan are required)

• Stages that are more than 225m2 in area (Note: Building Permit may be required)

• Amusement rides or inflatables

• Projected attendance of over 250 people

For questions, please contact: Municipality of Central Elgin

specialevents@centralelgin.org | 519-631-4860

Special Events Policy

Special Events Permit Application Checklist 

Special Events Administrative Procedure Manual