Events Planning Toolkit
The City is committed to helping community organizers execute safe and successful festivals and events in Richmond Hill.
In order to host an event on municipal property, you are required to complete a Community Festivals and Event Application. The information you provide will help our Special Events Advisory Team identify your permit requirements, special permissions that may be required, applicable fees, and municipal by-laws that apply.
Our team is here to help and answer any questions you may have. Listed below is more information about application timelines, the process and fees. We have also included some useful resources to help you with your planning process.
Need further assistance? Email us with your Community Festival and Event questions.
Application Information
| Application Timelines |
| To book a private event or an event space for a public event with fewer than 1,000 guests in one of our indoor or outdoor facilities, including a meeting room, arena, pool, gym or sports field, organizers must complete a Facility Rental Permit Form.
Organizers who are thinking of hosting a festival or event with more than 1,000 attendees or a festival or event that includes two or more of the following are invited to submit a Community Festivals and Events Application:
Applications for local festivals and events must be received no less than 60 days from the proposed date in order to be considered. |
| Application Fees |
There is no cost to submit a Community Festivals and Events Application unless your event involves the use of public sidewalks or a road closure. In accordance with the Tariff of Fees By-law #7917, the following application fees apply:
|
| Apply Now |
|
Your Community Festivals and Events Application must include a detailed description of the festival as well as the following:
If your event requires the use of a roadway or sidewalk, you must also remit the following:
|
Planning Resources
Whether you are planning a new festival or event or looking to expand an existing one, the Community Festivals and Events Planning Toolkit contains helpful templates and links to resources to facilitate your planning.
| Accessibility Resources |
| Community Festivals and Events Resource Manual |
| The Community Festivals & Events Manual is a terrific resource to help you identify any additional requirements that may be required. It outlines the additional permits and permissions that may be required for various festival and event components. The manual also includes information about the City’s Special Event Advisory Team, the application process and will help you to complete the Community Festivals and Events Application more thoroughly. |
| Event Networks |
| Government Resources |
| Operational Resources |
Alcoholic Beverages and Liquor Licenses
Amusement Rides/InflatablesBudgetElectrical Inspection (for events which include electrical installations/generators)Emergency Action Plan
Entertainment
FilmingFirst AidFireworks/Open Fires/Open Air Burning
Food and Beverage
Insurance
Lottery/Raffle/Bazaars/GamesNoise By-Law RestrictionsParades and Tours or Street EventsPolice Services - Paid Duty/SecurityPropane and FuelProtocolsSignageSingle Use Plastic AidSite MapSmoking and Vaping RegulationsTents or Temporary StructuresTraffic Management PlanUtility LocatesWaste Management Plan |
| Tourism Resources |
For more information or advice on planning a community festivals or event, email our Events Team.