Permits for special events with temporary structures

Permits for special events with temporary structures

Apply for a permit

This page is for people planning a special event in Calgary. Whether you need a City permit depends on the type of event you’re hosting, where it takes place and what you’re setting up. Some small private events don’t require permits, while public, commercial or recurring events usually do.

Use the information below to quickly understand if City approval may be required and what to do next.

Do I need a permit

Do I need a permit for my event

NO | You typically do not need a City permit if:

  • it’s a small private event at a home
  • the event is not open to the public
  • no large or multiple temporary structures are used

MAYBE | You may need City approval if:

  • the event is on commercial or industrial property
  • you’re setting up tents, stages or bleachers
  • the event is repeated or may impact neighbours

YES | You likely need a City permit if:

  • the event is open to the public
  • you’re hosting a festival, market or performance
  • the event includes large or multiple temporary structures
  • the event is recurring or seasonal

About your event

Before applying for permits, it’s important to understand whether your activity qualifies as a special event and what factors may trigger City approval.

A special event is typically an organized activity that goes beyond a small private gathering and may involve the public, repeated use of a site or temporary changes to how a property is used.

Common examples include:

  • festivals, markets or fairs
  • weddings or celebrations held outdoors or on commercial property
  • charity events, fun runs or community gatherings
  • performances, shows or promotional events
  • seasonal or recurring events at the same location
  • factors that affect permitting

Resources

 

Factors that affect permiting

Sometimes events require permits from The City, to make sure they are safe for staff and attendees.

Your event may require permits based on things like:

  • the location (residential vs. commercial or industrial property)
  • the use of tents, canopies, stages or bleachers
  • the size and duration of the event
  • whether the event is open to the public
  • frequency of events at the same address
  • activities or infrastructure that could impact safety, access or neighbours

What type of permit do I need?

Common permits

Some events will need more than a building permit. The information below outlines some of the permits you may need for your event.

 If you are hosting a small gathering at your home, typically you will not need any permits from The City.  

Development permit

Required for certain types of activites and site use. 

See more

 

We review all temporary tent or canopy applications to ensure they meet the Land Use Bylaw rules and have appropriate Planning approval. An approved development permit gives you Planning approval. You should apply for a development permit before applying for a building permit, as they take longer to review. If you’ve already applied for your building permit and your proposed event does not meet the Land Use Bylaw rules, then your building permit will remain on hold until your development permit has been approved.

Make sure that you submit your development permit application three to four months before your event date to ensure you have all the required permits in place.

For more information on development permits, read the Land use Bylaw. 

If you are unsure if you need a development permit, contact the Planning Services Centre.

Building permit

Needed for some temporary structures like tents or stages.

See more

 

Often building permits are needed for tents, canopies, stages, bleachers or interactive art installations. Determining what tier of tent or canopy you have will help you know if you need to apply for a building permit.

Building permits can take some time to process. Make sure you submit your application at least 45 days before your event.

cross

Residential property event: does not need a building permit. It does not matter if you have a tent or not.

Check

Public event: with groups or clusters of temporary tents or canopies are divided into three tiers. Each tier has different requirements and will determine if you need a building permit.

If your event includes temporary structures (such as tents, canopies, stages or bleachers), there may be additional permit requirements. 

Learn more about tent and canopy requirements

Trade permits

Gas or electrical permits are needed for certain equipment.

See more

 

Trade permits are for skilled trades, like gas or electrical work. Some events will need a gas or electrical permit. See the building code requirements for more information on when you need to apply for one.

Only the appropriate trade contractor can apply for trade permits. Read more about hiring a contractor.

Other permits you may need

Business licence

If you're selling goods or services at your event

If you’re hosting an event on the property associated with your business, your existing licence automatically extends to that event.  

If you have a business licence and you’re hosting your event elsewhere, you will need a new business license for activities that require a licence and are located on a different property.

Food, liquor or cannabis service licences

If your event prepares, serves or sells food, alcohol or cannabis

Food vendors that participate in City-approved events and festivals on City roadways, pathways or parks do not require a City of Calgary business licence. You can find more information on our food and vendor requirements page online. If you are operating or organizing a mobile food vending unit at an event, you may require approval through Alberta Health Services. See their special events - organizer package for more information.​​

To sell or provide liquor at a private event, you may require a special events licence through Alberta Gaming & Liquor Commission.

To have a designated cannabis consumption area on site an application with AGLC must be made 60 days prior to the event. 

If you are operating or organizing a mobile food vending unit at an event, you may require approval through Alberta Health Services. See the special events - organizer package.

Other permits

If your event affects roads, noise levels or public access, additional City permits may be required

For all the permits listed below, please apply for them as soon as possible. This will help make sure you have them approved before your event date. 

Permit type​ Event details Contact ​Additional information

Special event permit

If your event is in:

  • a high-rise office building used for public assembly
  • a building not classified for public assembly where you expect 50+ people
  • an arena or stadium parking lot
  • a sports arena being used for a concert or other event
  • a tent for public assembly
  • a building other than a public-assembly building classified for the purpose being used (concert, staged performance)
  • a public assembly or mall, displaying vehicles
  • a public area where the use temporarily changes (i.e. street fair, block party, park, etc.)
  • an outdoor location that requires fencing
  • a tent or air-supported temporary membrane structure over 300 square feet

Or, if your event includes:

  • fireworks, model rockets, laser displays, special effects or promotional displays
  • candles or open flames
  • special amusement (e.g. haunted house)
  • straw bales
  • indoor cooking

Calgary Fire Department

311​

Special event fire codes

Please see indoor special event requirements for information about:

  • occupant loads
  • floor/area layout
  • fire and life-safety inspection

Building owner responsibilities for fire safety equipment If your application is for fireworks or a special effects display, a copy of the pyrotechnic license and insurance certificate must accompany your submission.

Noise exe​​mption permit​

Required if your event is a major public event or music festival that will likely exceed permitted noise levels.

Private functions are not eligible.

Contact 311 or apply online

Bylaws related to noise

Noise exemption permit

Requires a minimum seven-day lead time.

No associated fee. ​

Road permits

Banners over roadways

Block parties

Bleachers

Mobile community signs​

​Road permits

Contact 311 or apply online

​​Roadway banners must promote nonequires a minimum four-week lead time.

Block party permits require a minimum three-week lead time. A petition must be signed by all residents.

The Bleacher application deadline is 90 days prior to the event.

The Temporary bleachers for public events building advisory provides important building code information about bleachers.

Mobile community signs are for promoting community events and meetings.

Fees vary for each permit.

Street use permit

If your event is for filming.​

Road permits

Issued at the discretion of the traffic engineer. Fees vary.

Temporary no-parking ban

Contact 311 or apply online

Used in conjunction with a street use permit.
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  • Planning an event?

    Watch to learn more about the permits you might need to host an event that is safe for staff, volunteers and attendees.

Before you apply

Permit timelines

Permit review times vary by permit type and event details. The timelines below show typical processing times.

To avoid delays, make sure your application includes all the required documents, plans and information listed on the checklist.

Permit type Our process Timeline

Building permit: Tier 1 – tents and canopies
  • No permit required.
  • No inspection required. 

0 days.

Building permit: Tier 2 – tents and canopies
  • No Building Permit inspection required.
  • Application is reviewed to ensure it matches the approved development permit and reviewed for safety codes compliance.
  • May require a development permit.

Approximately 1-2 business days if it qualifies for quick release.  

Building permit: Tier 3 – tents and canopies
  • Application is reviewed to ensure:
    • It meets the Land Use Bylaw.
    • It does not require a development permit or it matches the approved development permit.
    • It complies with safety codes. 
  • A site inspection is required.
  • May require a development permit.

Typically, between 21 and 49 days. 

The timeline may be longer if the application is incomplete or complex.
Development permit: Special function – class 1
  • 60 days to decision + 21 days advertisement/appeal period – Development permit process       
  • Timelines are subject to change based on circulation requirements.  
 12-16 weeks
Development permit: Special function – class 2 12-16 weeks

Paying for your permit

There is a fee associated with applying for a permit. See anticipated costs and how to pay for your permits below. 

How much will the permits cost?

Building and trade permits:

Building safety approval - building permit, trade permits Fee schedule Permit fee

Special event

Building and trade permit fee schedule

Use the building permit fee calculator to estimate your fees

Electrical permit

Building  and trade permit fee schedule

Use the trade permit fee calculator to estimate your fees

Gas permit

Building and trade permit fee schedule

Use the trade permit fee calculator to estimate your fees

Development permits:

Planning approval - development permit (if applicable) Fee schedule Permit fee Advertising fee Development completion inspection Total

Special event

Planning applications fee schedule

$361

$30

$233

$624

How to pay for a permit?

Online submissions

For online submissions with large permit costs, there is a deposit process in place that limits the amount paid online. 

Permit fees under $10,000

Permit fees under $10,000 must be paid in full when submitting your application.

Please note: the full payment of the remaining permit fees is required before the issuance of the partial or full permit. To pay the remaining total, please choose one of the payment methods listed below and reference your permit number.

Payment method Our process

By credit card

Payments can be made via credit card over the phone.

To make payment by credit card over the phone, please call 403-268-5311.

By cheque

Cheques can be made payable to: "The City of Calgary". Cheques can be mailed in using the mailing address below: The City of Calgary  Attention: Planning Cashiers - 8108 PO BOX 2100 STN M Calgary, AB  T2P 2M5 

By Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT)

If you want to pay by Electronic Funds Transfer you will select the payment option upon application. No fees will be processed at the time of the application intake. The Planning cash office will contact you the next business day and provide you with instructions to complete the EFT payment.

In-person submissions

When submitting your application in person, payment is due upon the time of submission. In-person payment methods are listed below. When you apply for your permit in person you must pay 100% of the permit fees up front.  

Payment method

By Credit/Debit Card

Payment can be made via credit and debit card at the time of submission of your application. All major credit card types are accepted.

By Cheque

Cheques can be made payable to: “The City of Calgary”. Cheques can be mailed in using the mailing address below: The City of Calgary  Attention: Planning Cashiers - 8108  PO BOX 2100 STN M Calgary, AB  T2P 2M5 

Cash

Payment by cash is only accepted in-person. Cash payment will not be accepted if sent via mail. 

Rules that affect your event

When planning a special event on private property, your event layout and activities must follow City bylaws and safety codes, even if a building permit is not required.

  • Location and land use

    Rules depend on where your event is located and the property’s land use district.

  • Development permits

    Some events require a development permit so the City can review potential impacts on neighbours, safety and access.

  • Safety codes

    All events must comply with the Land Use Bylaw, National Building Code (Alberta Edition) and National Fire Code (Alberta Edition).

  • Repeated events

    If you host multiple events at the same location, structures must be removed and the site restored after each event.

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Site planning

If your event includes temporary structures or requires detailed site planning, additional rules may apply.

Read the rules for designing your site plan

Tips for a smooth application process

Before you apply

Download the development permit or building permit checklist and check each application requirement as you prepare to submit your application. Items listed on the checklist are the minimum requirements. We might need more information after we review your application.

Provide all required documents on the checklist, including drawings, supporting material and any additional forms. If you are not sure if something is required, contact the Planning Services Center. 

Use sample drawings to review what you need to include on your plans.

Double check your documents are completed and make sure you have all required items on your plans before you upload them.

After you apply

The Planning Services Centre may contact you for more information required for your application. Follow-up on requests for more information as quickly as possible. This will help us process your application faster. 

Use the Job Access Code (JAC) to check status updates for your application on calgary.ca/vista

  • You’ll get a JAC by e-mail after you’ve submitted your application. If you did not receive a JAC number, contact the Planning Services Center.
  • Checking your application’s status using your JAC will provide you with timely updates about the status of your application.

Applying for a permit

Apply for your special function development permit
To avoid delays, make sure your application includes all the required documents, plans and information as indicated on the checklist.
Development permit checklist
Review digital application criteria

Contact the Planning Services Center to determine the current approved "use" for your proposed address.

Step 1
Prepare the application

Step 1
Prepare the application

You will need to know:

  • The event address.
  • The dates of the event, including set up and take down dates.
  • Who is applying (the contractor, designer, architect, owner, etc.).

What is a complete application?

A complete application includes all required plans, supporting documents and payment. Providing everything listed in the complete application requirements helps our teams complete their review without delays.

For more information on complete applications, please review building advisory A19-002 building permit complete application.

Step 2
Documents and plans

Step 2
Documents and plans

Prepare the required documents and plans for your permit application type.

For your development permit application:

For your building permit application:

Make sure you include a site plan in your application. Below are samples of what a site plan looks like and some tips on what to include in them. 

 

Step 3
Apply for permit

Step 3
Apply for permit

Apply online for a development permit

To apply for a development permit for a special function online, please call 403-268-5343. They will provide you will access to OneDrive to submit your application. 

Apply online for a building permit

To apply for a building permit online, you need a myID account. Create a myID account.

Apply in person

Drop off your application at:
3rd floor, Municipal Building
800 Macleod Trail SE

Step 4
Track your permit

Step 4
Track your permit

After you submit your development or building permit application online, you will get a confirmation email with a Job Access Code (JAC).

To track your development or building permit application and check its status, enter your Job Access Code in Vista.

If you need help or have questions, contact our Planning Services Centre. 

Make changes to your permit application

Step 5
Book your inspection

Step 5
Book your inspection

Inspections help ensure your event setup meets safety and code requirements. Not all events or structures require an inspection.

Do you need an inspection?

  • Tier 1 tents: No inspection required.
  • Tier 2 tents: No inspection required.
  • Tier 3 tents: Inspection required.

Detailed tent inspection requirements are explained on the temporary structures for outdoor events page.

Book or manage an inspection

The inspections booking system provides a streamlined experience for you to better manage your inspections. You can book, reschedule or cancel your inspections through the online tool.

Book your inspection

Please note, inspections can be booked up to 10 business days in advance and occur Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. We continue to do our best to accommodate booking requests. Some dates may be unavailable due to inspection capacity.

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit if I’m hosting a small event at my home?

Usually, no. Small gatherings at a private home typically do not require a City permit.
You may need a permit if your event includes temporary structures (like tents or stages), large crowds, commercial activity or other elements that affect safety or neighbours.

Do I need a permit?

What types of permits might I need for a private property special event?

Depending on your event, you may need one or more permits, such as:

  • a development permit
  • a building permit
  • trade permits (electrical, gas, plumbing)
  • other approvals related to tents, stages or structures

Not every event needs every permit. Requirements depend on the size, setup and activities planned for your event. 

Do tents, canopies or stages always require a permit?

Not always. Small tents or canopies may not require a building permit if they meet Tier 1 size and safety requirements.

Larger tents, clusters of tents or stages may require permits and inspections based on their size and configuration. 

See what type of temporary structures need a permit

How far in advance should I apply for a permit for my event?

Apply as early as possible.

Permit review times vary depending on the size and complexity of your event and can take several weeks or longer. Submitting early helps ensure all required approvals are in place before your event. 

How do I make changes to my permit application

If your event details change, such as the layout, tent size  or structures, you may need to update your application.

Changes can affect permit requirements, so it’s important to review your approvals and submit updates before your event takes place. 

Make changes to your permit application

How do I extend my permit?

If your event dates change or your permit period needs to be extended, you must request an extension before the permit expires.

Extensions are subject to review and approval and may require updated information or additional permits. 

Extend your permit

Planning Services Centre

Hours:
Monday - Friday
8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (MT)

Live chat:
calgary.ca/livechat

Call:
403-268-5311

In person: 
Planning Services Centre,
3rd floor, Municipal building 
800 Macleod Trail SE

Book an eAppointment for in person services at appointment.calgary.ca

Please note: The Property Research Counter will be temporarily closed from
8:00 - 9 a.m. (MT) on the first Tuesday of each month.