Event Requirements
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Event Applications
If you are planning an event in Centre Wellington, you may be required to submit an Event Application Form.
Applications are required for all new or returning events taking place on Township property, including streets, parks, facilities, trails or parking lots. Events held on private property may also require an application if they are expected to have a significant municipal impact.
Submitting an application helps ensure your event is safe, well-coordinated and meets all applicable municipal requirements.
Please note: Submission of an application does not guarantee approval. All applications are subject to review by Township staff.
For questions regarding the application process or event requirements, contact the Township's Community Development Coordinator.
Accessible Event Planning
The Government of Ontario's Guide to Accessible Events is a helpful resource for planning accessible events and experiences.
The guide includes practical considerations for accessible venues, parking, paths of travel, seating, lighting and acoustics, food services, washrooms, quiet spaces, service animals, emergency information, communication supports and event promotion.
Event organizers are encouraged to consider accessibility throughout the planning process and to make information about accessibility available to attendees in advance.
Advertising and Promoting Your Event
Promote Your Event with the Township of Centre Wellington
Event organizers can enhance their event's visibility by taking advantage of the Township's promotional channels.
- Add your event to the Township's Calendar of Events.
- Apply to post on the Community Messaging Electronic Signs.
- Tag the Township's social media accounts in your promotions.
Electronic Messaging Signs
Community organizations and event organizers may apply to have their event promoted on the Township's electronic messaging signs.
Event organizers can submit the online application or use the printable request form included as Schedule 1 in the policy. Completed printable forms must be submitted by email to communitypartners@centrewellington.ca at least 14 days before the requested posting date. The policy explains eligibility, message priorities, content requirements, display periods and applicable fees. Approval is subject to the Township's review and discretion.
Social Media and Event Promotion
Event organizers may tag the Township's social media accounts when promoting their event. The Township's Branding and Social Media Policies & Guidelines explain how the Township uses its corporate social media channels.
For information about the type of event content that may be considered for sharing through Elora & Fergus Tourism, review the Social Media: Events Guide. It outlines expectations for high-quality event photos and a brief event description. Content should be provided 3 to 4 weeks before the event for consideration.
- Facebook: Township of Centre Wellington
- Twitter/X: @CentrWellington
- Instagram: @elorafergus
Please note that tagging the Township or providing content does not guarantee a post share. Event promotion is subject to the Township's social media policies, branding guidelines and content calendar.
Alcohol at Events
If you plan to sell or serve alcohol at your event, your request to do so should be received at least four months prior to the event date in order for the necessary approvals to be obtained by the Township.
Permission may be granted for use of certain designated locations. If approval is granted, you will be required to comply with the Township's Municipal Alcohol Policy (MAP). The current policy was approved by Council on July 13, 2026 and takes effect January 1, 2027.
The MAP outlines requirements for servers, monitors, fencing, event staff, security and other conditions, as determined by the Township and the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). Event organizers should review the policy in full when planning an event where alcohol will be served or sold.
Event organizers are responsible for ensuring all requirements and conditions outlined in the policy are adhered to at their event.
Depending on whether your event is private or public, you will be required to obtain a Special Occasion Permit (SOP) from the AGCO or hire a caterer who has a Catering Endorsement.
For further reference, please visit the AGCO website.
Township Authority
The Township of Centre Wellington has the right to cancel any scheduled or active event where public safety is a primary concern or if event requirements are not fully met.
Damages to Township Property
The cost to repair any damages to Township property will be the responsibility of the event organizer. Repair costs will be assessed and communicated to the event organizer by Township staff as soon as possible after the event is complete.
Digging, Staking and Fencing on Park Property
In many Township parks and grounds, underground utilities are buried below the surface.
All requests for installation of any object that penetrates the ground, including fence posts, tent poles or pegs and sign installations, must be pre-approved to avoid damage to underground utilities.
It is the responsibility of the event organizer to arrange for locates and to provide a copy of the locate sheet to the Township prior to set up. Please note that this requirement is separate from your tent permit. Approval of your tent permit does not automatically authorize the installation of tent pegs, stakes or any other objects that penetrate the ground.
You may want to consult with other organizations hosting events at the same location during this time to discuss cost-sharing opportunities.
For more information or to book, contact Ontario One Call at 1-800-400-2255 (free service). Other providers that charge a fee may be found locally.
Electrical
Event organizers must confirm that adequate event electricity is available at the event site. All equipment, including extension cords, must be CSA or Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) approved. Equipment connected without approval may result in a fine.
It is the responsibility of the Event Organizer to contact ESA and obtain all required permits prior to the special event. This includes completing an application for installation inspection. ESA requires a minimum of 48 hours' notice to book an inspection.
The Ontario Electrical Safety Code (Rules 2-004 – Inspection and 44-100 – Travelling Shows) requires that a permit must be obtained before any electrical equipment is used for the initial performance of a travelling show. This ensures that a qualified person oversees the installation.
Permits and inspections are NOT required in cases of:
- Simple plug and play.
- A single generator less than 12KW (120 volt) is used to connect equipment using standard configuration cords and receptacles.
- All equipment being used is connected to building power using standard configuration cords and receptacles.
- The total voltage draw does not exceed 110 volts with a maximum of 15 amps per circuit.
Permits and inspections ARE required in cases of:
- Any usage or setup considered more than simple plug and play.
- Generator greater than 12KW or 240V using approved extension cords.
- Carnivals, trade shows and large events.
- When deemed necessary by Township staff.
Generators will be positioned so as not to create a hazard, disturb or cause nuisance as a result of noise emissions and exhaust fumes. The use of generators at an event site is subject to Township and ESA approval.
In foot passage areas, cords are to be covered with rubber mats, while in vehicle passage areas, cords are to be fed through approved temporary sleeves.
Emergency Plans and Preparedness
The event organizer is responsible for ensuring that an emergency plan is in place. Emergency plans must be developed specific to the special event activities, including written plans for communication responsibilities, coordination with authorities, weather, personal and property damage.
Event organizers are responsible for tracking and communicating extreme weather conditions to event participants and attendees before and during the event. Hot temperatures, high winds, heavy rain, snow and sleet can all pose safety risks for special events.
- If requested, the Emergency Action Plan must be developed to ensure all aspects of public safety are addressed (e.g. emergency medical services, security, communication tactics and social media management).
- If requested, the plan must be submitted to the Township a minimum of thirty (30) days prior to the event.
- All costs associated with preparing Emergency Action Plans and complying with required paid duty police officers, medical services and security shall be solely borne by the Event Organizer unless otherwise agreed upon in writing by the Event Organizer and the Township.
Included with your Emergency Action Plan, a mandatory Emergency Preparedness Meeting will be required prior to your event and must be hosted between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
The event organizer is responsible for inviting the appropriate representatives to attend. An attempt must be made to have the following in attendance, where applicable:
Event-Specific Service Providers
- Event Security Provider
- Event First Aid/Medical Provider
Agencies and First Responders
- Township Staff – events@centrewellington.ca
- Township Fire Services – fireservices@centrewellington.ca
- Police (OPP)
- Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health
- Guelph-Wellington Paramedic Service
- Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), where applicable
The purpose of the Emergency Preparedness Meeting is to ensure that all parties are aware of the event, understand the Emergency Action Plan, are familiar with site access points and emergency procedures, and have an opportunity to identify and address any concerns prior to the event.
Please note that the Event Security Provider and Event First Aid/Medical Provider are hired by the event organizer and may vary from event to event. Community agencies and first responders are not hired by the event organizer but should be invited to participate in the emergency planning process where applicable.
Emergency Services and First Aid
All public events with service of alcohol and/or expected attendance of 3,000 or more must provide First Aid on site (St. John Ambulance or similar).
It is recommended that EMS medical on-site services should be considered for events with 5,000 or more in attendance and/or events serving alcohol.
Fire and Open Air Burning
Wood-burning campfires are NOT permitted on Township property. Propane-fuelled fire bowls are allowed only if there is no fire ban in effect.
A permit is required for all open-air burning in the Township.
Applicants must obtain written permission from the property owner. A site inspection will be scheduled. An operational, certified fire extinguisher is required on-site.
If the fire is to be located on Township property, non-traditional campfires are permitted, provided the event organizer uses a CSA/TSSA-approved propane fire bowl. Only propane may be used in the fire bowl, and it must always be supervised with an extinguishment agent nearby. No traditional wood-burning campfires are allowed, and all other regulations must be followed.
For additional information, please review the Township's By-law 2006-083 to Establish and Regulate a Fire Department, the Open Air Fires By-law 2019-35 and its 2024-14 amendment.
Contact Fire Prevention at fireservices@centrewellington.ca or 519-843-1950 for additional information, proper licensing and to determine if locates are required.
Fireworks
Events with a fireworks display require approval from the Centre Wellington Fire Department prior to the event. Specific insurance requirements must also be met before a permit can be issued.
An application for approval to discharge fireworks in the Township of Centre Wellington is required to be submitted at least 14 days prior to your event. The application requires event and display details, a site plan, information about the fireworks and proof of insurance.
For more information, contact fireservices@centrewellington.ca or 519-843-1950.
Food at Events and Food Vendors
Food trucks and mobile food vendors are not permitted to operate or conduct business on Township property unless they are formally associated with a Township-approved event, tournament or major sporting team game, as defined in the Township's Recreation Facility Allocation Policy.
As the event organizer, you are required to complete the following:
- Review the Special Event Information at the Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health (WDGPH) website.
- Complete the WDGPH Special Event Organizer Application form at least 60 days before the event.
- Notify Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health of any significant changes to the original application.
- Ensure your vendors providing food to the public fill out the WDGPH Special Event Vendor Application Form. Each event organizer is responsible for ensuring all vendors have completed this at least 14 days before the event.
- Have each of your vendors selling food to the public fill out the Township of Centre Wellington Application for Vendor Licence – Food Vehicle and send it to the Community Development Coordinator. Vendors must provide all requested documents listed in the application form. Each event organizer is responsible for collecting completed forms and sending them to Township Legislative Services at least 14 days before the event with all required documentation.
For more information, contact Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health at 1-800-265-7293 ext. 4753 or phi.intake@wdgpublichealth.ca, or Township of Centre Wellington Legislative Services at licensing@centrewellington.ca or 519-846-9691 ext. 306.
Additional Requirements
- All vendors utilizing propane or electrical appliances must be inspected by Centre Wellington Fire Department at least one week prior to the event.
- All vendors utilizing gas appliances are required to have an annual TSSA (Technical Standards Safety Authority) inspection.
- All approved cooking appliances located at ground level must be arranged to prevent public access. While barrier fencing is not required, there must be a clear and effective method of restricting access.
- Appropriate portable fire extinguishers are required for all appliances. Inspection and maintenance tags must be affixed to each extinguisher.
- All food truck, trailer or portable units where cooking is conducted require an MFSE certificate.
For more information, contact fireservices@centrewellington.ca or 519-843-1950. Please refer to the NFPA Food Truck Safety Checklist for guidance.
Inflatables and Bouncy Castles
An inflatable is any structure, object or attraction that requires inflation with air or gas to maintain its shape or function. This includes, but is not limited to, bounce houses, inflatable slides, inflatable tents or domes, and any item supported or stabilized by air pressure, even if it remains on the ground or is not designed for climbing or bouncing.
Under this definition, any item requiring air to be operational is not permitted, regardless of whether individuals' feet remain on the ground or not.
Insurance
Proof of insurance coverage is required for all events taking place on Township property. Insurance is necessary to protect both the event organizer and the Township against potential claims or legal action arising from the event.
Event organizers must provide a copy of their Certificate of Insurance to the Township's Community Development Coordinator at least 30 days prior to the event date.
Please ensure that:
- The Township of Centre Wellington is named as an Additional Insured on the Certificate of Insurance, using the following address:
Township of Centre Wellington
1 MacDonald Square
Elora, ON N0B 1S0
- The policy provides Commercial General Liability Insurance (inclusive of bodily injury and property damage) with a minimum coverage amount of $5 million per occurrence. Larger events may be required to obtain higher coverage limits.
- Events involving the sale or service of alcohol must also obtain Host Liquor Liability Insurance.
- The Certificate Holder information and Named Insured on the policy match the organization or individual identified on the Township event permit/application.
- The dates on the policy cover the entire rental period, including all setup, event and teardown dates and times.
- If the event is taking place at multiple locations, all locations must be listed on the Certificate of Insurance.
It is the responsibility of the event organizer to ensure that all insurance requirements established by their insurance provider are met. To avoid delays in approval, please ensure that the name listed on the event application matches the name shown on the insurance certificate.
Layout of Event
For all events with service of alcohol and/or expected attendance of 3,000 or more, an Event Layout Plan is required.
To ensure the safety of all visitors to your event, a layout of all event activity locations is to be submitted to the Township. Once approved, this plan is to be adhered to.
The site plan will be in place so that staff can review the organizer's plans and ensure the layout of stages, licensed areas and other activities comply with approved uses for Township property.
Note: High-impact activities such as stages must be located to minimize sound level impact on surrounding residents and businesses.
Noise Restrictions
The use of amplified sound for special events must comply with the Township of Centre Wellington's Noise By-law 6001-24.
Exemptions to the Noise By-law may be granted through a permit issued by the Township. The Noise By-law Exemption Application must be submitted in writing. By-law 6001-24 requires applications to be made at least 30 days before the requested exemption begins. The Township's event guidance requires the exemption application to be submitted at least 8 weeks before the event. This is earlier than the 30-day minimum set out in the By-law and allows time for review.
Please review the Noise By-law for details about noise restrictions, exemptions and permit conditions.
Parking and Traffic Plan
Depending on the nature and scale of the event, the Township may require the submission of a Parking/Traffic Plan.
The Plan must demonstrate how the event will manage impacts on Township streets and parking facilities, including arrangements for available parking, overflow areas, on-site volunteers to direct traffic, and the placement of signage to inform attendees of appropriate parking locations.
For information on parking in Centre Wellington, contact parking@centrewellington.ca.
Patio Heaters
All events using patio heaters must review the TSSA safety guidelines and comply with the applicable safety checklist.
Petting Zoos and Animals
Petting zoos or other animal exhibits on Township property must receive approval. Event organizers having petting zoos or animals at their event must advise and comply with the Petting Zoo guidelines as outlined by Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health.
For more information, contact Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health at 1-800-265-7293 ext. 4753 or phi.intake@wdgpublichealth.ca.
Event organizers may prohibit dog or pet owners from bringing animals to their event. Signs should be erected communicating this. Event organizers will be encouraged to promote that owners leave their pets at home. This is to provide a safe and clean environment for guests and to avoid distress and confusion for pets.
This excludes persons reliant upon service animals or persons having obtained an exemption or written authorization.
Police Services and Security
Event organizers must provide appropriate security personnel for their event. Extra-duty police may be required, subject to review by the Ontario Provincial Police.
In accordance with the Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005 (PSISA), event security guards must be licensed by the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services and must wear a regulation uniform while carrying out their security duties.
Uniform Requirements
- The term "SECURITY" or "SECURITY GUARD" must be displayed on the uniform in specific places and specific dimensions.
- The uniform must include an identification tag, which shows the licensee's name, license number or both.
- A security guard uniform should not bear any traits that resemble a police uniform, such as rank chevrons, a police-style forage cap or stripes down the side of the trousers.
Individuals are required to have a security guard licence if they perform work, for remuneration, that consists primarily of protecting persons or property. This includes, but is not limited to, bodyguards, bouncers and loss prevention personnel, and more generally individuals who patrol premises.
Depending on the elements of your event, police paid-duty officers may be required. Township staff will meet with the event organizer to confirm requirements. Payment for police paid-duty services is the responsibility of the event organizer.
Pre and Post event meeting is required with Township staff.
For all events with service of alcohol and/or expected attendance of 3,000 or more, a Pre/Post Event Site Walk will be requested in addition to other standard requirements.
Book an event site walk with the Community Development Coordinator to review all site plans and the condition of the site before and/or after your event.
Raffles, Bazaars and Games
Operation of a lottery, raffle or bazaar within the Township of Centre Wellington must comply with all Provincial and Municipal regulations to be considered for approval.
Lottery licences issued by the Township include:
- Bingo events, with prize boards of up to $5,500.
- Media bingo events with prizes up to $5,500.
- Break-open tickets for local organizations.
- Raffle lotteries for total prizes of $50,000 and under.
- Bazaar lotteries, which include wheels of fortune with a maximum bet of $2.00, raffles not exceeding $500, and bingo events up to $500.
More information can be found through the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario's charitable lottery licensing information, or contact Township Legislative Services at licensing@centrewellington.ca or 519-846-9691 ext. 306.
Re:Sound and SOCAN
Special events that play or use copyrighted music are required to obtain permission to play music at public events through the purchase of a licence.
SOCAN represents songwriters and music publishers, while Re:Sound represents performers and record companies. Both are Canadian not-for-profit organizations that issue licences for the public playing and performance, communication, display and reproduction of music and visual art. The money collected from licences is distributed as royalties to the rights holders who have earned them.
For more information, visit the Entandem website, which issues licences on behalf of Re:Sound and SOCAN.
Road Allowance and Road Closures
A Road Closure Permit will be required if your event takes place on a road and/or sidewalk. Road closure fees may apply in accordance with the Township's current Fees and Charges By-law. The rate sheet identifies a $500 deposit payable at the time of application. Following the event, actual staffing and equipment costs are calculated, and any remaining deposit is refunded or additional costs are invoiced to the organizer.
The cost recovery rate sheet outlines the applicable hourly staffing and equipment rates, including regular-time and overtime rates. Final costs depend on the staffing, equipment and duration of the road closure.
Please complete the Application for Road Closure/Special Event if your event will take place on road allowances and submit it to the Community Development Coordinator a minimum of two (2) weeks prior to your event.
Water-filled Jersey barriers will be used for events with an expected attendance of more than 1,000 guests to provide additional protection and enhance public safety. These barriers are available for events taking place between May 1 and September 30 only. Outside of this period, standard road closure barricades will be used.
Events using the road (shared use) must comply with existing traffic regulations. These include, but are not limited to, obeying traffic signals and posted speed limits.
Sanitary Facilities and Washrooms
Event organizers are responsible for ensuring access to adequate washroom facilities and washbasins during events. If washroom facilities do not exist at the event location, the Township of Centre Wellington recommends the following:
Number of units required when no service is based on a 50/50 mix of men and women. It is recommended that for every 10 washrooms, an accessible washroom is provided.
| Average Crowd Size | 1 Hour | 2 Hours | 3 Hours | 4 Hours | 5 Hours | 6 Hours | 7 Hours | 8 Hours | 9 Hours | 10 Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1,000 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 |
| 2,000 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 18 | 20 | 23 | 25 |
| 3,000 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 16 | 20 | 24 | 26 | 30 | 34 | 38 |
| 4,000 | 8 | 13 | 16 | 22 | 25 | 30 | 35 | 40 | 45 | 50 |
| 5,000 | 12 | 15 | 20 | 25 | 31 | 38 | 44 | 50 | 56 | 63 |
| 6,000 | 12 | 15 | 23 | 30 | 38 | 45 | 53 | 60 | 68 | 75 |
| 7,000 | 12 | 18 | 26 | 35 | 44 | 53 | 61 | 70 | 79 | 88 |
| 8,000 | 12 | 20 | 30 | 40 | 50 | 60 | 70 | 80 | 90 | 100 |
Site access for deliveries must be confirmed with the Community Development Coordinator.
All Township Public Washrooms can be found through the Township's Public Washrooms page.
Existing Washroom Facilities at CW Community Sportsplex
| Location | Women's Facilities | Men's Facilities |
|---|---|---|
| Pad A | 5 sinks, 10 toilets | 7 sinks, 5 toilets, 6 urinals |
| Pad B | 2 universal washrooms (each with sink and toilet) | |
| Hall | 3 sinks, 6 toilets | 3 sinks, 3 toilets, 3 urinals |
| Campground | 3 sinks, 5 toilets | 3 sinks, 2 toilets, 3 urinals |
Signage
Temporary directional signage can be erected on the public road allowance to direct the public to non-profit charitable events without a sign permit.
Directional signage can be erected 7 days prior to the event and must be removed by 11:59 p.m. of the day the event ends. These signs shall have a maximum height of 1 metre (3.3 ft), maximum area of 0.4 sqm (4.7 sqft) per sign face, and shall be located a minimum of 3 metres (9 ft 10 in) apart. A maximum of 10 off-site signs are allowed.
Mobile Signs
All mobile signs require a sign permit. To make your mobile sign permit application, please submit the following one month before your event:
- Sign permit application form including display dates. Mobile signs are permitted to be displayed for a maximum of 30 days.
- Written permission from the property owner.
- Site plan showing the location of the mobile sign and setbacks from property lines, driveways, etc.:
- Minimum 1.0 m (3 ft 3 in) from property line.
- Minimum 3.0 m (9 ft 10 in) from side property line or driveway entrance.
- Minimum 15 m (50 ft) from an intersection of two streets.
- Details of the sign drawn to scale, including sign dimensions, height and design/graphics to be displayed:
- Maximum 1.8 m (6 ft) in height.
- Maximum 2.4 m (8 ft) in width or 4.4 sqm (48 sqft) in sign area.
Please contact the Building Department at building@centrewellington.ca or 519-846-9691 ext. 907 with any questions.
Smoke-Free Ontario Act
The Province of Ontario has made it illegal to smoke or vape in public outdoor spaces under the Smoke-Free Ontario Act. This applies to all special events on Township of Centre Wellington property.
Smoking refers to the smoking or holding of lighted tobacco or cannabis (medical or recreational). Vaping refers to inhaling or exhaling vapour from an electronic cigarette, or holding an activated electronic cigarette, whether or not the vapour contains nicotine.
It is the event organizer's responsibility to post related signage at the event for visitors to be informed of the Smoke-Free Ontario initiative. Signage is available through Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health.
For more information, contact WDGPH at 1-800-265-7293 ext. 4753.
Sustainability
Event organizers should consider ways to reduce the environmental impact of their events.
Sustainable practices might include:
- Proper waste diversion.
- Encouraging carpooling to the event.
- Considering the use of water bottle refill stations.
- Providing bike racks for event attendees.
- Using compostable or reusable plates and cutlery.
- Using social media for promotions.
- Using electronic or paperless invitations.
- Using local vendors and food providers.
Tents
All tents must be secured with stakes or weights to the ground for safety. Any tents that are being staked or pegged require utility locates.
The Ontario Building Code requires building permits for any tent that exceeds 60 m² (646 ft²) in ground area. A building permit would also be required for a group of tents that exceed 60 m² (646 ft²) in aggregate ground area. A group of tents refers to tents located closer than 3 metres to one another.
Tents over 600 m² in size require an engineered design. Please review the Temporary Tent Permit Guide (PDF) for application and submission information. Submit the required information to building@centrewellington.ca at least one month prior to your event.
All tents used for an event shall be fire-retardant treated and have a corresponding certificate, which must be available should the Centre Wellington Fire Department request it. Tents may also need to be inspected by the Centre Wellington Fire Department.
All stalls, booths and tents used for an event as a place of assembly (e.g. beer or food tents) are to be equipped with multi-purpose portable fire extinguishers rated a minimum 2A10BC.
No cooking, no smoking and no open-flame devices are permitted in a tent or air-supported structure occupied by the public, or where there is storage of combustibles such as hay or straw.
For more information, contact fireservices@centrewellington.ca or 519-843-1950.
Temporary Structures
A building permit application is required for a stage where:
- A stage of any size is or has components higher than 5 m (16 ft); or
- A stage of any height is bigger than 225 sqm; or
- The stage is bigger than 60 sqm (646 sqft) and higher than 3 m (9.8 ft).
A building permit is also required for demountable support structures (i.e. a structure supporting banners, sound equipment, lighting equipment, etc.) where:
- The structure is more than 3 m (9.8 ft) in height; or
- Designed to carry loads greater than 115 kg; or
- Would create a hazard to the public.
The design of the stage and any related elements are required to be signed off by a Professional Engineer. An on-site general review by a Professional Engineer will be required before the use of the structures.
For further information and the required documentation, review the Temporary Structures: Demountable Stages and Support Structures Guide and Form (PDF).
Please contact Building Services at 519-846-9691 ext. 907 or building@centrewellington.ca for building permit inquiries at least one month prior to your event.
Township Equipment Rentals
Planning an event in Centre Wellington? The Township offers equipment rentals to help support your event!
The Township of Centre Wellington offers the Water Cart for event organizers hosting festivals and community events within the municipality. The Water Cart provides convenient access to free municipal drinking water, helping organizers offer a sustainable hydration option for event attendees.
Please be advised that the Cultural Resource Centre (CRC) permanently closed effective November 1, 2026. The CRC is no longer accepting rental requests, and its Cultural Resource Inventory and Order Form is no longer available.
The Township's Water Cart remains available for eligible festivals and events.
Water Cart Rental Deadlines
- Requests must be submitted a minimum of 21 days in advance of your requested rental date.
- Payment must be received a minimum of 7 days in advance of your requested rental date.
Water Cart
Thanks to a successful partnership between major festival groups, including the Fergus Scottish Festival, Riverfest Elora, Fergus Fall Fair and the Elora Festival, and the Township, a refurbished Water Cart has been jointly purchased to provide free municipal drinking water at festivals and events in Centre Wellington.
The Water Cart features:
- Four water bottle fillers.
- Four drinking fountains.
- Accessibility-compliant design.
The Water Cart is available for events held in Centre Wellington that have access to a municipal water source. This service is offered annually from May 1 to September 30, providing a convenient hydration option for attendees during the warmer months.
The cart is on wheels and connects directly to a municipal water spigot, making it easy to set up at your event.
Delivery and Inspection Hours
- Monday to Thursday: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- Friday: 8 a.m. – 11 a.m.
- Excluding holidays.
More information on water conservation can be found through the Township's water conservation resources.
All Parks labour required in addition to routine maintenance of the park or event space will be billed to the Event Organizer based on the rates established in the Township's annual Rates and Fees.
Vehicles in Parks
In order to protect members of the public, as well as the parks for future use, access of vehicles in parks must be approved by the Township of Centre Wellington.
The event organizer will ensure that vehicle access into the park is controlled and monitored throughout the event, including setup and teardown, at all access points designated, allowing entry to emergency vehicles only during event operating hours.
Designated service vehicles such as golf carts used for transporting supplies, removing garbage or first aid must be approved prior to use on Township property.
Vendors (Non-Food)
A Transient Trader means any person who offers goods, wares or merchandise for sale in any manner in the Township. No person shall operate as a transient trader within the Township of Centre Wellington without a licence to do so.
| Licence Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Transient Trader – Annual | $300.00 |
| Transient Trader – Daily | $25.00 |
| Community Event | $300.00 |
Special Event Organizers who have vendors at their event are required to apply for vendor licences with the Township of Centre Wellington.
Each event organizer is responsible for collecting a completed PDF form and sending them all to the Township of Centre Wellington at least 14 days before the event.
For more information, contact the Township of Centre Wellington Legislative Services at licensing@centrewellington.ca or 519-846-9691 ext. 306.
Volunteers
Event organizers should develop volunteer management practices specific to their special event.
Consideration should be given to providing effective training, protection, tools and equipment to volunteers. Volunteers should understand that they are performing a service at their own risk and are not eligible for compensation.
Volunteers should not be left alone to supervise vulnerable populations.
Waste Collection
Event organizers are responsible for providing and managing waste collection throughout their event, including garbage, recycling and grease disposal, where applicable.
To maintain a clean and sanitary event site and minimize the attraction of birds and pests, waste must be collected and removed regularly during the event.
For all outdoor events, organizers must arrange for an appropriately sized garbage dumpster or another method of collecting and removing waste. Township dumpsters must not be used for event-generated waste.
At the conclusion of the event, the site must be left in the same condition as it was prior to the event. If Township staff are required to clean up waste or restore the park or facility, all associated costs will be charged to the permit holder.
Weather
Event organizers are responsible for tracking and communicating extreme weather conditions to special event participants and attendees before and during the event.
Extreme temperatures, high winds, heavy rain, snow and sleet can all pose safety risks for events. An inclement weather response procedure should be included in the Emergency Plan.
Questions About Hosting Your Event?
We're here to help you navigate the event planning process.
For questions about event applications, Township requirements or permits, please contact the Community Development Coordinator.
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