Prior to an event being permitted, the Special Events Team reviews the event application in detail to ensure it meets our special event requirements and follows City bylaws before granting approval. Take a look back at our list of 2022 Permitted Outdoor Public Events, many of which will be returning in 2023.
All outdoor community events are subject to the:
Outdoor Special Event, Filming and Activities Bylaw No. 2513-2016. As an event organizer, you should also be aware of following bylaws:
Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 1256-2003 Street and Traffic Bylaw No. 1536-2006
Your event requires a Special Event Permit if it falls under the Outdoor Special Event, Filming and Activities Bylaw No. 2513-2016. It will require a permit if it is:
Applications should be submitted at least 90 days prior to your event to allow you to receive approval for any applicable permits:
The Special Events Team will provide you with feedback and/or conditional approval regarding your application
The Special Events Team will be your contact throughout the event planning process and may ask you to provide proof of additional permits, contracts, and licensing
The City of Abbotsford awards in-kind grants to non-profit groups who can demonstrate that their community event can provide significant economic benefits and/or community pride to Abbotsford. Events must be held in the City of Abbotsford and have attendance of over 1,000 people. Groups must apply each year and grants must be used to offset direct City costs including facility rentals, field rentals, and equipment. Apply online here for a Special Events Grant Application.
Note: organizations may receive a maximum In-Kind Grant of $4,000 per calendar year.
Before your Special Event Permit can be issued, all necessary documents and information must be submitted and the application fee must be paid. Permits are as followed and are based on your total event attendance:
Payments are accepted in-person at Abbotsford City Hall by cash, cheque, credit card, or debt.
Cheques are payable to the “City of Abbotsford” and may also be mailed to:
Attention: Community and Special Events - 5th Floor Abbotsford City Hall 32315 South Fraser Way Abbotsford, BC V2T 1W7
Community events are an essential component of our City and help to foster a vibrant economy through community involvement and economic benefit.
We value your feedback and ask that you please complete our post-event wrap sheet and submit it to the Special Events Team.
All public Non-Farm Use events on agricultural land must go through a permitting process:
The information provided below outlines the Agricultural Land Commission’s conditions for public Non-Farm Use events for up to 150 people:
The City of Abbotsford is committed to the safety and success of all events in the community; large or small. For further information on events and the application process, please email our Special Events Team or call 604-864-5586.
Where an event includes the use/encroachment of City Property, including streets, sidewalks, and other public space, as per Street and Traffic Bylaw No. 3066-2021, a Highway Use Permit must be obtained from the Engineering Department.
If you are planning on hosting a run/walk in a park, please complete a Park Booking Request Form.
Where an event includes preparing or serving food to the participants or general public, a Temporary Food Permit must be obtained from the Fraser Health Authority.
All mobile food vendors must obtain a City of Abbotsford Business Licence in order to operate at an event. Apply for a New Business Licence.
If you are planning to serve or sell alcohol at your outdoor event you will need the following:
Residents wishing to discharge fireworks in the City boundaries require a fireworks permit. Permits will only be issued to certified Technicians who meet the requirements outlined in the City of Abbotsford Fireworks Bylaw No. 1439-2005.
The Special Events team must receive written approval from Abbotsford Fire Rescue Service to have open flame and/or propane pits at an event. For more information email Abbotsford Fire Rescue Service or call 604-853-3566.
