Burnaby Street Closure Fees & Block Party Maps

Events and Special Uses British Columbia 3 Minutes Read · published May 24, 2026 Flag of British Columbia

Burnaby, British Columbia residents planning a block party or neighbourhood street closure must follow the city’s events and special uses procedures to ensure public safety, traffic control and bylaw compliance. This guide explains what to expect for street closure requests, the typical documents and maps you must provide, how applications are processed, and where to find official forms and contacts so your event proceeds smoothly.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement for unauthorised street closures and related violations is handled by City of Burnaby departments responsible for bylaw enforcement and traffic/engineering compliance. Specific monetary penalties and fee amounts for unlawful closures are not specified on the city’s event pages and application form cited below.[1][2]

  • Enforcer: City of Burnaby Bylaw Enforcement and Engineering departments, including Traffic Services.
  • Fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: information on first, repeat or continuing offence amounts or ranges is not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to cease use, removal of barricades, permit suspension or court action are enforcement tools typically available to municipalities; specific measures are not itemized on the cited event pages.
  • Inspections and complaints: residents may report unsafe or unpermitted closures to Bylaw Enforcement via the City contact channels listed in Resources below.
Always confirm enforcement and appeal details with the city before your event.

Applications & Forms

The City provides a Special Event Permit application and guidance that describes required maps, insurance and notification requirements; the application form is the primary submission for street closure requests.[1]

  • Form name: Special Event Permit Application (official city form).[1]
  • Purpose: Request street closure, lane reductions or public space occupation for temporary events.
  • Fee: not specified on the cited form or events page.
  • Deadline: submit well in advance; the official guidance page and form describe timelines and processing steps.[2]
  • Submission: complete the official application and follow the submission instructions on the city’s events page.[2]

How to Prepare Maps, Traffic Control and Neighbour Notifications

Maps should clearly show the closed street segment, access points, proposed barricade locations, emergency access routes and locations of event infrastructure (stages, tents, portable toilets). If a traffic management plan or certified traffic control personnel are required, hire contractors who meet the city’s specifications and include their details with your submission.[1]

Provide clear maps and emergency access notes to speed approval.
  • Deadlines: check the official events guidance for recommended lead time and processing windows.[2]
  • Traffic control: include a plan for signage and trained traffic control attendants if required.
  • Neighbour notification: notify affected residents and businesses as required by the application form.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to close a residential street for a block party?
Yes, you must apply using the City’s Special Event Permit application to request a temporary street closure; follow the map, insurance and notification requirements on the form.[1]
How long before the event should I apply?
Submit the application well in advance; the city’s guidance page describes timelines and recommended lead times.[2]
What happens if neighbours object?
The city reviews objections as part of permit consideration and may require additional mitigation or deny the closure if public safety cannot be assured.

How-To

  1. Download and complete the Special Event Permit Application and prepare a clear street map showing barricades and emergency access.[1]
  2. Gather required documentation such as insurance, traffic control plans and neighbour notification evidence.
  3. Submit the application according to the instructions on the city’s events page and pay any required fees if stated.
  4. Coordinate with city staff during review and implement any required changes to your traffic control or safety plan.
  5. If approved, follow permit conditions on the day of the event and retain contact information for emergency services and bylaw staff.

Key Takeaways

  • Apply using the City’s Special Event Permit application and include a clear map.
  • Insurance, traffic control plans and neighbour notification are commonly required.
  • Contact Bylaw Enforcement or Engineering early to confirm details and timelines.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Burnaby - Special Event Permit Application (official form)
  2. [2] City of Burnaby - Events and Special Uses guidance

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