Parklet Program

COVID-19 (Coronavirus) update: parklets

May 28, 2020: Parklets are now open with limited movable furniture to help slow the spread of COVID-19.

Remember to maintain a 2 m distance from others while enjoying our public spaces.

To transform parking spaces into people places.

A parklet is an extended platform over a parking space, and includes public seating, landscaping, and bike parking. They are typically designed and built in partnership with local partners, such as non-profits, neighbourhood houses, and business associations. Parklets provide public spaces for people to sit, relax, and socialize.

Parklet goals

  • Expand public space – Parklets provide places for people to sit, relax, and enjoy the city
  • Foster social life – Create welcoming, year-round public spaces through partnerships
  • Support local – Attract people to the location with unique seating and a variety of community activities
  • Widen sidewalks – Increase space for people to walk where sidewalks are narrow or congested
  • Build sustainably – Source low impact, reusable materials with planted features

Are you a community organization? Consider a parklet

Parklets are typically stewarded by local partners, but are free and open for any member of the public to use.

Advertising, table service, and other commercial activities are not permitted.

What's happening

We're not currently accepting new applicants for the Parklet Program.

Our program is under review, but we'll be tracking all inquiries for the future.

Timeline

Program timeline

  • 2011 - 2013

    Pilot Projects

  • 2013 - 2016

    Pilot Parklet Program

  • 2016 - Now

    Official Parklet Program

Parklets in Vancouver

Parklets in Vancouver

By City of Vancouver

 

  • Parallel Park

    By City of Vancouver

    The original parklet in Vancouver celebrated 6 years in the neighbourhood through a refresh this summer. The parklet is the first to be paired with a bike corral and modular decking and railings with more features anticipated.

  • Urban Pasture Parklet

    By City of Vancouver

    Long curving benches, beautiful wood decking, and lots of landscaping. A great place to sit and people-watch the throngs of Robson Street shoppers.

  • French Quarter Parklet

    By City of Vancouver

    Angular benches and multi-level planters. An inviting gathering place near the independent boutiques of Main St.

  • Commercial Drive Parklet

    By City of Vancouver

    Steel and wood tables and benches. Have a break and experience the dynamic Drive.

  • Sunny Slopes Parklet

    By City of Vancouver

    This two-level parklet makes for twice the enjoyment on the sunny slope of 4th Avenue. Sit, relax, and enjoy the ample seating and mini garden.

  • Meet the Parklet

    By City of Vancouver

    A place where the grass is always green. Here you will find beach chairs under an umbrella, and custom-made wood and steel tables and stools.

  • Fraserhood

    By City of Vancouver

    Already a popular hang-out, the Fraserhood provides custom-made wooden benches to sit and relax, and perhaps enjoy some food from one of local restaurants.

Resources

Initially a stand-alone pilot project that started in 2011, City Council approved the Parklet Program on June 1, 2016.

Contact us

Have a question or comment about the program: parklets@vancouver.ca