Seasonal Commercial Enterprise in Parks

To address the increased volume of organized sport, recreation and cultural activities in city parks, an application process and guidelines have been established for individuals or groups who provide sport, recreation or cultural programming.

From May 1 to October 31 (spring program) and November 1 to March 31 (winter program) , individuals or groups looking to operate an enterprise in a City park require a permit. A permit grants approval to conduct business in a designated park, but does not grant exclusive rights to a specific park or time. Public access to parks must be maintained at all times.

Any person or group operating without a permit is in violation of the Recreation Facilities and Park Usage Bylaw, 1998 #7767, Section 26. This violation is addressed in accordance with the City of Saskatoon's bylaw enforcement procedures.

1. Download the Seasonal Commercial Enterprise Application Form and Information Guide
2. Submit your application form, along with the supporting documents:
   • A comprehensive business plan (Outline Guidelines Appendix 2)
   • A map of the preferred area in approved Eligible Areas of Operation
   • Plan of proposed site improvements (if applicable)
   • Visual rendering of any structures being built or brought into park space

  Application packages can be submitted through email at sce@saskatoon.ca or mailed to/dropped off at:

Seasonal Commercial Enterprise Program
Cosmo Civic Centre, Open Space Programming & Development
Recreation and Community Development Department
2^nd Floor
3130 Laurier Drive
Saskatoon, SK S7L 5J7
 

Note: Applications must be received by February 15 (spring program) or August 15 (winter program).  If the deadline falls on a Saturday/Sunday or Statutory Holiday, applications will be accepted until the following business day.

3. Upon submission, the Seasonal Commercial Enterprise Adjudication Committee will review applications and recommend the City’s approval to issue a permit.  Evaluation is based on the criteria outlined in the Seasonal Commercial Enterprise in Parks Policy.
   • Compatibility with the Policy Purpose and Objectives;
   • Compatibility with current park programming;
   • Integration of temporary structure into park setting;
   • Vendor’s Business Plan;
   • Vendor’s experience and qualifications;
   • Need for product or service; and
   • Uniqueness of proposal.
      
4. Applicants will be notified of how their application was adjudicated 30 days following the application deadline.
    
5. Successful applicants have until April 15 (spring program) or October 15 (winter program) to produce the following documents:
   • Successfully apply and obtain a Commercial Business License.
   • Proof of Liability Insurance with a minimum liability limit of $2,000,000 and name the City as an “Additional Insured” party
   • Motorized Vehicle in Park Permit (if applicable)
   • Building Permit (if applicable)
      
6. The final permit will be issued once all the required documents from Step 5 are provided and the Seasonal Commercial Enterprise in Parks Permit fee has been paid.

Need help with your application and/or business plan? Download the Seasonal Commercial Enterprise Application Guide and FAQs.

Note: The Seasonal Commercial Enterprise in Parks Permit applies only to operations in parks and does not regulate Seasonal Commercial Enterprises on private property, at special events, or festivals.