People sitting at tables at Helena Gutteridge Plaza

Public space and street use

Public plazas and gathering spaces play a vital role in public life.

They're places for celebrations and protests, community events, and neighbourly interaction. They benefit local business and enhance social well-being.

As our city continues to densify, these spaces become the outdoor living rooms for everyday activities, make our city more interesting and exciting, and help create a sense of identity and place.

Find out what's happening, learn about our programs, and get involved

Plazas and public space

We’re working to create better plazas and gathering spaces throughout the city.

Busking and entertainment

Find out what is required to busk in Vancouver streets.

Make an outdoor mural

Interested in creating a mural in your community? Apply for paint supplies and support for your outdoor mural.

Beautifying your boulevard and street

We run programs that allow residents to volunteer to tend to street gardens in traffic calming spaces.

Sidewalk fixtures and amenities

View a map of public washrooms. Request a new sidewalk bench, bike rack, or waste bin.

Sidewalk activities

There are a number of opportunities for kiosks, carts, and other retail businesses on City sidewalks.

Business licences and permits

Apply for and get requirements about licences and permits for business, film, special events, and advertising.

Temporary street occupancy permits

Temporary street occupancy permits reserve parking spaces for your construction work, moving trucks, special deliveries, or service work.

Parks, gardens, and beaches

Visit one of the stunning parks, gardens, and beaches in Vancouver.

Related projects and plans

Downtown: Places for People

We want your ideas on how to support exceptional, vibrant, and memorable experiences in downtown Vancouver.

Transportation 2040 Plan

Transportation 2040 is a long-term strategic vision that will help guide transportation and land use decisions and public investments.

Contact information, partner agencies, and website policies

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