Policies and guidelines for picnics

Designated picnic sites

If your picnic booking is under 50 people, you can use designated picnic sites on a first-come first-serve basis without a permit.

Important note If a valid permit holder reserves the space, the permittee has exclusive rights to the space and may ask you to relocate.

If your gathering is between 50 and 150 people, you must book a designated picnic site online and obtain a permit.

Important note Maple Grove, Riverfront, and New Brighton Park picnic sites have a maximum capacity of 75 people.

If your group is larger than 150 people or has any additional set-up outside the permitted picnic equipment, you will require a special event permit.

Non-designated sites

If your gathering exceeds 50 people, you must get a special event permit for non-designated locations/parks. 

If your gathering is under 50 people, you do not require a permit so long as: 

• There is no amplified sound
• There is no alcohol (pending the alcohol in parks program)
• There are no setup or structures
• There are no advertisements, banners, signage, or sponsors
• There is no public solicitation (examples: social media posts, engaging the public)
• It is not a public event

Important note If a permit holder arrives, you will need to vacate the area.

If you have any questions regarding what is or is not permitted at a designated or non-designated site, email [email protected].

General barbecue restrictions

• Barbecue must be 75 centimetres off the ground.
• Barbecues are not allowed on sandy beach areas.
• Fires are prohibited at all times.
• Coals must be doused with cold water and removed.
• A full clean up after you are finished is required.
• Do not leave your barbecue unattended.

Permitted equipment

• Blankets, lawn chairs, folding tables
• Barbecues no larger than 81 centimetres (32 inches) wide by 61 centimetres (24 inches) deep by 63.5 centimetres (25 inches) high
• Two 10 foot by 10 foot tents (no spiking permitted)

Email [email protected] if you are unsure of allowable equipment.

Important note There are many tables available on a first-come, first-serve basis in Vancouver's parks that can be used for picnics. You may not need to bring a table.

• Caterers are not allowed unless you have a picnic permit.
• Equipment and carts must be carried or wheeled in from parking lot.
• No driving or unloading supplies permitted on the service roads or grassed areas.
• It is the responsibility of the permit holder to ensure the caterer has all required food and business permits and complies with current fire safety regulations.

If you are not sure of allowable equipment for caterers, email [email protected] with your inquiries.

Food trucks

Food trucks are not permitted.

However, a food truck may be permitted with a picnic permit at the Prospect Point picnic site only. To request a food truck for your event, you must email [email protected].

• Amplified sound and music is strictly prohibited.
• A small, handheld, portable Bluetooth speaker may be played at a low volume such that only your group can hear.

No alcoholic beverages are to be dispensed, sold, or consumed in the park at any time. Sections 42 and 43 of the Liquor Control and Licensing Act External website, opens in new tab

Exceptions for alcohol consumption are made if the park falls under the Alcohol in parks and beaches program:

• Review the webpage for permitted locations.
• Permit holders are responsible for complying with all terms and conditions.
• The sale or distribution of alcohol is still prohibited.