Special Events

If you are planning an outdoor special event, please contact SpecialEvents@clarington.net at least 90 days in advance to learn more about what permits or applications you may need.

The Municipality of Clarington has three separate special events by-laws, one for events occurring on private property (By-law 2014-020), one for events that require the use and occupancy of municipal roads (By-law 2014-021), and another for on-farm special events (By-law 2021-049).

Both by-laws ensure that any necessary outside agencies, (Police, Fire, Ambulance) are aware of the event and steps have been taken to mitigate or remove potential risks or conflicts with the neighbours.

Special events on a roadway

A special event on the roadway means a demonstration, parade, procession, organized walk or run, bicycle ride or race, filming event, street dance, residential block party, rally, fair, sidewalk sale, festival, carnival, and any cultural, recreational, educational or similar event.

For events held on municipal highways, submit a Special Events Road Occupancy Permit Application. For more information, contact Public Works by email or by calling 905-623-3379 ext. 2315.

Please refer to the Special Event Signage Policy (PDF) for more information on signage for special events. 

Special events on Municipal property

For events held on Municipal property, contact bookings@clarington.net call 905-623-5728 ext. 2552.

Special events on private property

Special events can mean any cultural, recreational, educational or similar event, including fairs, festivals and carnivals that have an expected daily attendance of at least 500 persons at any time during the event when held on private property.

If you expect more than 500 people to attend your event, you must submit an application for a Special Events on Private Property Permit (PDF).

Exemptions

A Special Events on Private Property Permit is not required for special events held on or at:

• Orono Fairgrounds
• Property owned by a conservation authority, school (whether public or private), university, college or church
• Property owned by the Region of Durham.

You do not need a Special Events on Private Property Permit for sporting events (including golf tournaments), or motor vehicle racing, provided the use is permitted in Clarington's zoning by-laws or has otherwise been authorized by the Municipality.

A Special Events on Private Property Permit is not required for the CP Holiday Train.

A Refreshment Vehicle License is still required for all trucks and trailers attending events.

If your event has an expected daily attendance of less than 500 daily attendees, you do not need to apply for a Special Events on Private Property Permit. However, if your event includes any of the following activities, you may need to obtain additional permits and approvals.

On-Farm Special Events

Hosting on-farm special events in Clarington can offer farmers an opportunity to add to their income and support local tourism. However, it’s essential that these planned events are compatible with ongoing farm operations and don’t have an undue impact on neighbouring property owners. For more information, please see the On-Farm Special Events Guidelines (PDF).