When you need a special event permit
You need a special event permit if you plan to host a festival, market, concert, parade, or public gathering on City property, a park, or a street in Wrenford. This also applies if your event will temporarily close a road, use public washrooms, or require extra safety or cleaning services.
If your event is held on private property and does not affect public space or services, you likely do not need a City permit. However, you may still need a liquor serving permit or a sign permit. Check the Business licence FAQs page for more details.
How to apply
Submit your application at least fourteen days before your event date. You can apply online through the Wrenford Business Portal or drop off a printed form at the Customer Service counter, Wrenford City Hall, 100 Mercer Street, Wrenford, ON N4Q 1A1.
You will need to provide:
- A detailed event plan, including setup and cleanup times
- A site map showing stages, washrooms, food vendors, and emergency exits
- A list of all vendors and entertainers
- A noise management plan
- Proof of insurance (see below)
Our events team will review your application and contact you within ten business days. If your event requires a road closure or police security, your application will be forwarded to Roads & Winter Maintenance and the Wrenford Police Service for approval.
Fees and deposits
Permit fees depend on the size of your event and the resources required. All fees are non-refundable once the application is approved.
| Event type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Small event (under 500 attendees, no road closure) | $150.00 |
| Large event (500 or more attendees, or road closure required) | $300.00 |
| Refundable damage deposit | $250.00 |
The damage deposit covers any repairs needed for parks, washrooms, or streets. You will receive a full refund if the site is left in good condition within twenty-four hours after your event ends.
Insurance and safety requirements
All applicants must carry general liability insurance with a minimum limit of $5,000,000. The City of Wrenford must be named as an additional insured on your policy. You must provide a certificate of insurance at least seven days before the event.
For events involving food, stage structures, or large crowds, you may also need:
- A fire safety plan reviewed by Fire Station 1 (Headquarters)
- Temporary washroom rentals approved by City Services
- A first aid post staffed by certified attendants
Alcohol and entertainment
If you plan to serve or sell alcohol at your event, you must apply for a Special Event Liquor Permit through the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). The City of Wrenford cannot issue liquor permits. You must submit your AGCO application at least thirty days before the event.
Live music, amplified sound, and entertainment must comply with the Noise by-law 2016-122. Decibel limits are enforced from 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. in residential areas and from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. in commercial zones. Contact the By-law Enforcement team if you need a noise variance for a late-evening event.
After your event
Leave the site clean and free of debris. All personal equipment, tents, and signage must be removed. If you used public washrooms or utility hookups, please leave them in working order. An events officer may inspect the site within twenty-four hours to process your damage deposit refund.
Need help planning? Email the Events Coordinator at [email protected] or call 519-555-0100. We are happy to review your proposal and point you to the right permits.