Event Permit Refunds & Payments - Burnaby Bylaw

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

This guide explains refunds, transfers and payment options for event permits in Burnaby, British Columbia. It covers when refunds are available, how to request a transfer or credit, acceptable payment methods, and the administrative steps event organizers must follow with the City of Burnaby. Use this guide to prepare your application, understand timeframes, and know where to pay or appeal decisions.

How refunds, transfers and payments work

Refunds and transfers for event permits depend on the permit type, timing of the request, and any costs already incurred by the city for services or staffing. Organizers should request refunds or transfers in writing as soon as possible and provide any required evidence of cancellation or change. The city may apply administrative or service fees before issuing a refund.

Request transfers early to improve chances of approval.

Applications, fees and eligibility details are maintained by the City of Burnaby Special Events and permits team; see the official guidance for permit-specific rules and forms[1].

Common payment options

  • Online credit card or e-payment where offered by the city.
  • Invoice and cheque payment for approved organizations, subject to payment terms.
  • In-person or phone payments through municipal customer service where available.
  • Deposit and milestone payment schedules for large events may be required.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of permit terms, payment deadlines, and refund rules is handled by the City of Burnaby departments identified on permit documentation. Specific fine amounts and escalation for non-payment or permit breaches are not specified on the cited enforcement page; consult the enforcing department for exact monetary penalties and remedial orders[2].

Failure to pay or comply can result in permit cancellation or further action.
  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first offence, repeat offences, and continuing breaches are handled per city enforcement practice and may include increasing fines or orders; specific ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to cease activity, permit suspension or cancellation, and referral to courts or recovery actions.
  • Enforcer: Bylaw Enforcement and the issuing permit office; complaints and inspections are directed to the city contacts on the permit documentation[2].
  • Appeals and reviews: appeal routes and statutory time limits depend on the permit instrument; time limits are not specified on the cited enforcement page and must be confirmed with the issuing office.
  • Defences/discretion: permitting officers may consider reasonable excuse, emergency closures, or approved variances when deciding refunds or penalties; exact criteria are not specified on the cited page.

Applications & Forms

The city publishes permit application forms and submission instructions on its Special Events and permits pages; if a specific refund or transfer form is required, it will appear with the permit application materials[1]. If no form is published for refunds or transfers, organizers must submit a written request to the issuing office as instructed in permit conditions.

Action steps for organizers

  • Apply for the correct event permit and review refund/transfer rules on issuance.
  • Request transfers or refunds in writing as early as possible and include confirmation of cancellation or change.
  • Pay deposits or fees by the city’s accepted methods and keep receipts.
  • If you dispute a decision, follow the appeal instructions on your permit or contact the issuing office immediately.
Keep records of payments and correspondence to support refund requests.

FAQ

How do I request a refund for a cancelled event?
Submit a written request to the issuing permit office with proof of cancellation; specific forms may be posted on the city permit page and processing depends on incurred costs and timelines.[1]
Can I transfer my permit to another date or organizer?
Transfers are considered case-by-case and must be requested in writing; approval may depend on availability, insurance and payment of any difference in fees.[1]
What payment methods are accepted?
Accepted methods vary by permit type and include online card payments, cheque or invoicing where allowed; check the permit application instructions for options.

How-To

  1. Confirm your permit type and read the refund and transfer section on the official permit page.[1]
  2. Gather evidence for your request: cancellation notice, vendor confirmations, and payment receipts.
  3. Submit a written request to the issuing office by email or as instructed on your permit.
  4. Await city review; if approved, follow the city’s refund payment instructions or accept a credit or transfer per the decision.
  5. If denied, follow the appeal or review route indicated on the permit or contact Bylaw Enforcement for further guidance.[2]

Key Takeaways

  • Request refunds or transfers promptly and keep documentation.
  • Fees and deductions may be applied; check permit-specific guidance.
  • Contact the issuing office or Bylaw Enforcement for enforcement, appeals and inquiries.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Burnaby - Special events and permits
  2. [2] City of Burnaby - Bylaw Enforcement

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