Contacts
Approval from the City of Stratford is required to hold an outdoor event on municipal property, including, but not limited to:
It is the responsibility of the organization to obtain approval for their event.
Required Documents and Applicable Fees
Special Event Application Form
The first step for anyone looking to host an outdoor event on municipal property is to book the space with the corresponding booking clerk. The City of Stratford proudly offers several outdoor spaces to host events. Visit the City of Stratford’s website for photos and additional information. Park attractions and features can be found here. Information on the newly revitalized Market Square can be found here.
The second step is to complete a Special Event Application. The application must be submitted for all outdoor events a minimum of 12 weeks prior to the event date. This process helps to ensure that all City of Stratford Departments, which may be required to provide services, are aware of and prepared for any potential conditions arising from the event. Applications shall be submitted to the City’s Events Coordinator via email or dropped off in person at the Stratford Rotary Complex.
The City’s Events Coordinator will act as a liaison to internal departments and will advise on whether or not approval has been granted. Based on the information provided in the application, internal departments will determine conditions, if any, that must be met before granting final approval. Conditions may include additional insurance parameters, licences and/or permits, and/or changes to the on-site layout.
A site map must be submitted with the application, clearly indicating the layout of the event and/or proposed route/area. Additionally, for all events held on municipal property, including streets or sidewalks, a Certificate of Insurance must be provided that names ‘The Corporation of the City of Stratford’ as an additional insured for the event for the minimum amount of $2 million dollars per occurrence. See the application for more details. The Insurance Form template can be found here.
There is no charge for Special Event Applications submitted 12 weeks or more in advance of the proposed event date. Any late application received less than 12 weeks prior to the proposed event date will be subject to a fee of $150 for expedited service.
Depending on the nature of the event, supplementary documents may also be required when submitting the application such as payment for late fees, a list of goods and services, a list of floats and displays, etc. See the first page of the Special Event Application for more details.
Applications can be downloaded at the links below or hard copies may be picked up in person at the Stratford Rotary Complex.
Special Event Application for Events in Market Square
Complete applications shall be submitted to the City’s Events Coordinator via email or dropped off in person to the Stratford Rotary Complex.
Accessibility Booklet |
The Accessibility Directorate of Ontario has developed a useful Accessibility Booklet for organizers of accessible events. It contains a checklist to ensure that everything is considered when planning and hosting an accessible event such as bazaars, festivals, community meals and meetings. This booklet is intended for community members who plan events. It includes information on no-cost or low-cost actions that can help reduce barriers for people with disabilities and make events more inclusive. |
Greener Events |
The City of Stratford, together with CFUW Stratford, have created two helpful event planning Tip-Sheets: Guide to Greener Events and Ideas to Host Greener Events. |