Special Events

Description

• A special event permit must be obtained for any activity carried out by an individual, group or association that, by its nature and scope, requires special provisions or approval.  
• Special events range from small local or family functions (i.e. wedding, family reunion) to large provincial, national and international events (i.e. Scout Jamboree).
• Special events:
  • may include races or other organized outdoor events which require the use of park facilities or lands;
  • often involve more than 50 participants; and
  • may include directional signs, tents, or equipment set-up.
• For group picnics, non-programmed school activities or activities by organized groups such as Girl Guides, Boy Scouts or Junior Forest Wardens:
  
  • a letter of authority may be issued instead of a permit; and
  • the requirement for insurance may be waived.
• We have many group camping areas for reservation which are ideal for company or club functions and family events. Most group day use areas are first come-first served although a few can be reserved.
  

Requirements

• An application must be submitted at least 30 days in advance of an event. For events occuring between May and September, it is strongly recommended that applications be submittted at least 90 days in advance. 
• Applications are accepted up to one year in advance.
• Special event permit application forms:
• • application form for parks in Kananaskis Region (including Fish Creek Provincial Park and Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park)
  • form for all other Alberta parks
• The application must include:
  • the special events permit application form;
  • proof of liability insurance, if applicable (minimum $2,000,000 per occurrence); and
  • the special event fee.
• Depending on the size of the event, an applicant may only have to complete Part A or both Parts A and B of the application form. Contact the Parks Division staff responsible for the park where the event is to be held to determine what is required.
• In some instances, a security deposit may also be required.
• Organizations that require special services from Tourism, Parks & Recreation will be charged for the cost of those services.
• Submit the application to the Parks Division office responsible for the park.

Note

• Some types of events may not be approved. Examples include events that would involve a safety risk to participants/spectators or that have the potential to damage park facilities or resources. 
• Each special event permit application is evaluated on its own merits.