Victoria is a vibrant city which hosts a range of events, from world-class competitions and festivals to block parties and weddings.
You are required to submit a permit application if you plan to host an event in a City-owned public space.
Please review the following information to confirm the requirements for your event. If you have any questions about the application process, please email our Arts, Culture and Events Team.
Apply for a Special Event Permit
Special events include any celebration, festival or gathering in a public municipal space.
- Complete the Special Event Permit (SEP) Application.
- Please note General Liability Insurance in the amount of $5 million is required for all events. The certificate of insurance must list The City of Victoria as an interested party and must be submitted to the Arts Culture & Events staff for review before a permit will be issued.
- If necessary, complete the Festival Equipment Loan Form.
- If necessary, submit a Temporary Entertainment (Electrical) Permit application through MyCity.
Please note that applications require a minimum of four to six weeks notice. A minimum of eight weeks notice is required for events that require a road closure or multi-day park closure.
The following information is not required for your application, but may be useful when planning your event:
- Special Event Guidelines
- Access to Public Facility Policy
- Guidelines for Sponsor ID at Special Events
- National Fire Protection Association
- BC Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch
- Zero Waste Event Guide
- Service Providers and Resource Directory for Zero Waste Events
Insurance
Insurance for the event must be obtained by the Applicant. The Applicant must provide proof of coverage at least two weeks prior to the booked timeslot. Failure to obtain and provide proof of coverage by this time will result in cancellation of the booking. Coverage may be obtained through a provider of the Applicant's choice or Instant Risk. Please contact Instant Risk directly for any question or concerns regarding that platform or coverage.
If arranging coverage through your own own provider, the Certificate of Insurance must evidence Commercial General Liability coverage with a minimum of $5 million limits, and include The City of Victoria as an Additional Insured, with a cross liability clause.
Indemnification
In booking the facility, the Applicant agrees to indemnify the City against any and all claims, actions or demands that may be brought, made or arise in respect of anything done or omitted to be done by the Applicant pursuant to facility rental or resulting from the use of the Facility, save and except to the extent that such claims, actions or demands arise from or relate to the negligence, wrongful act or omission of the City, or any of its officers or employees.
Additional Permits
Find an Outdoor Venue
There are several outdoor locations in Victoria that can be used for concert, band or choir performances.
The Cameron Bandshell, also known as The Stage in the Park, is an outdoor performance venue located in the middle of the City's beautiful Beacon Hill Park. The venue can be booked by any non-profit organization.
Centennial Square is a dynamic public square for people of all ages to gather. Centennial Square is available for bookings, but no sound equipment or site services (power and water) are provided.
The Arts, Culture and Events Team can help you decide which location might be best for your event.