Temporary Park Use Permits

About the Program

To support local businesses adhere to the COVID-19 physical distancing guidelines outlined by the Provincial Health Officer, the District of Squamish launched a new temporary permit program for the use of municipal park space.

The permit authorizes the temporary use of municipal parks for businesses with an active District of Squamish business licence. As part of this program, all fees associated with District of Squamish park use were suspended. Many local businesses and non-profits were able to take advantage of the program since its launch in June 2020, offering a chance to host their programs and services in a safe, physically-distanced outdoor environment.

Program Update

The Temporary Park Use Program has been extended until June 1, 2022. Staff invite local businesses and organizations to apply for activities that follow the latest provincial health orders.

Beyond June 2022

Due to the program's success, staff will be developing options for a long-term legacy program that can continue beyond the Temporary Park Use Program. Options will be presented for Council's consideration before April 1, 2022. Please keep an eye on the District's new public engagement website, Let's Talk Squamish, for engagement opportunities in early 2022!

How to Apply

1. Create a sketch to show your proposed park use concept (this can be hand-drawn). 
2. Complete the online application form.
3. If approved, District of Squamish staff may phone or email you to provide further information about the booking.

We will be reviewing applications on a first-come, first-served basis. Please allow five business days for your application to be processed. You will receive a confirmation via the email address you provide.

Application Guidelines

The following guidelines apply:

• Any organization with an active District of Squamish Business Licence can apply.
• The application form will prompt you to select your preferred park, plus one alternate. For details on District parks, refer to our locations guide. (Please note that any fees listed in the guide do not apply to this temporary program.)
• Businesses must have proof of insurance, with a minimum of $5 Million Commercial General Liability insurance and the District of Squamish named as an additional insured party. If the cost of insurance is a barrier for your business, you may want to consider partnering with a local non-profit organization, as many already have the appropriate insurance.
• Programs must be temporary in nature, and any structures must be taken down same-day.
• To ensure there is enough park space remaining for general use, only applications requesting 50% or less of a given park will be considered. Recurring programs that occur over multiple days will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Park use must follow all provincial health orders. As part of the application review process, a representative from Vancouver Coastal Health will review and provide any conditions. (You can call Vancouver Coastal Health for any questions at 604-815-6840.)
• Businesses will need to obtain all applicable permits from other agencies as relevant, such as through Vancouver Coastal Health if a food services permit is needed, or the provincial Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch, if a liquor permit is needed.

Park Use Guidelines

If your application is approved, you will need to abide by the following guidelines:

• Do not use equipment or materials that must be driven or drilled into the ground, trees, or other surfaces, such as tent stakes. Please only use equipment that can sit on top of the surface, such as pop-up tents.
• If your use includes cooking, please have a plan to ensure that any by-products from cooking do not damage the park space. Use appropriate amenities available at the park, such as designated cooking areas.
• Do not drive outside of designated driving and parking areas, even for unloading, as this can create lasting damage to the fields and landscaping.
• Respect our parks, and follow Leave No Trace ethics. If you pack it in, pack it out!
• You must manage waste and garbage associated with your park use. This also includes managing wildlife attracts per the Wildlife Attractant Bylaw. Waste can be recycled or disposed of at the Squamish Landfill.
• Activities must follow the District's Noise Regulation Bylaw, which states that activities on District land must conclude by 10:00 p.m.