Planning Guide – What is a Special Event?
There are literally thousands of events, festivals, celebrations, games and gatherings that occur in Toronto which could easily be classified as Special Events.
The City of Toronto defines a special event as:
- Any pre-planned one-time, annual or infrequently occurring temporary (no more than 10 consecutive days during any calendar year) activity;
- Involves the use of, or having impact upon, public property, facilities, public parks, sidewalks or street areas owned, leased or controlled by the City of Toronto;
- Requires a permit(s) and/or pre-approval from the City;
- Involves the use of any city services that would not be necessary in the absence of such an event;
- Can be organized by a private, charitable or not-for-profit organization;
- Admission can be free or a charge.
Additionally, the City classifies special events into four general categories. Examples are given for each.