The City of St. Catharines can waive select City fees to eligible applicants to help offset the costs of special events happening in the city, such as presentations or festivals which offer an inclusive experience to a wide range of participants.
We welcome, support and encourage cultural festivals and events that build civic pride, encourage local engagement and attract people to the community. We give preference to applicants that display community building by creating partnerships with community organizations, arts and cultural organizations, athletic and social clubs, and/or service clubs.
Policy details and eligibility
Our Special Events Waiving of Fees Policy outlines full eligibility details, principles, procedures and restrictions. Examples of City fees that can be waived include (but aren't limited to) Park Permit fees, City property rental fees and staffing costs outside normal operations.
The maximum amount that the City can waive is equal to 50 per cent of the specific fee identified in your application. Our approval of waived fees does not guarantee the availability of a reservation or equipment, and City Council reserves the right to limit the amount of fees waived annually.
Ineligible activities and fees
Some activities and fees are beyond the scope of this program, regardless of their merit. We cannot waive fees for:
- Festivals and events that are similar to those already provided by the City
- Festivals and events that are already funded through other programs or agreements with the City
- Insurance fees and damage deposits
- Non-City fees or expenses
Request waiving of fees
To request waiving of fees for your special event, complete our Application for Special Event Permit.
You can attach mandatory documents to this form and you will receive email confirmation once your application has been submitted successfully. Please be prepared to answer all questions and have your mandatory documents ready to be uploaded and attached.
Deadlines
For events happening from January to June, please ensure your application is submitted by Dec. 31 of the year before your event. For events happening from July to December, please ensure your application is submitted by March 31 of the year the event is taking place.
For first-time events, please ensure your application is submitted by Oct. 31 of the year before your event. We accept all first-time event applications for review pending budget availability.
Mandatory documents
You must include in your application:
- A detailed budget, showing revenues and expenditures
- A copy of your City rental permit, confirming dates, times and the location of your event, and all City fees associated with the event
- For special events where a portion or all proceeds are being donated to a charity, you must include a confirmation letter from that charity.