Who can apply for a charitable fee exemption?

Registered charities, not-for-profits and community groups can apply as part of the City special-event permit process.

Is there a published fee schedule for exemptions?

The City publishes Fees and Charges; specific exemption rules or amounts are detailed on the permit guidance or fee schedule when available.

How long does the exemption decision take?

Processing time is not specified on the general special-events information page; contact the City permit office for timing estimates.

Charitable Event Fee Exemptions - Burlington Guide

Events and Special Uses Ontario 3 Minutes Read · published May 24, 2026

Organizing a charitable event in Burlington, Ontario often means applying for a special-event permit and asking the City to waive or reduce municipal fees. This guide explains who typically qualifies, how to request a charitable fee exemption, what supporting documents to provide, and where decisions are made within Burlington city government so you can plan with confidence.

Who Can Request an Exemption

Organizations that identify as registered charities, not-for-profits, or community groups usually start the request as part of a special-event application. Eligibility criteria and any priority rules are set by City policy and the permit program.

Required Steps to Request an Exemption

Complete the City of Burlington special-event permit application and indicate the fee-exemption request on the form. Special events information^[1]
Attach proof of charitable status (e.g., CRA registration number) and a short event plan showing community benefit.
Include a clear list of the specific municipal fees from which you seek exemption (site rental, park use, equipment, road closure fees) and any deadlines or payment terms.
Submit the application to the City contact listed on the special-events page and follow up if you do not receive confirmation.

Penalties & Enforcement

Burlington enforces permit conditions and bylaw compliance through municipal staff and by-law officers. Specific fine amounts and structured escalation for unpermitted events or noncompliance are not specified on the cited City special-events information page or on the general fees page cited below; where specific figures are required they are listed in the City enforcement/bylaw schedules or the Fees and Charges schedule if published separately. Fees and charges schedule^[2]

Enforcement can include orders to stop the activity until compliance is achieved.

Typical enforcement authority: By-law Enforcement and Municipal Licensing (or the department listed on the permit).
Fines and monetary penalties: not specified on the cited page.
Escalation (first/repeat/continuing offences): not specified on the cited page.
Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, removal of equipment, permit suspensions, and court prosecution are potential measures.
How to report noncompliance: use the City of Burlington by-law enforcement contact or the complaint form on the City website.

Applications & Forms

The special-event permit application is the primary form; the City posts the application and guidance on its special-events information page. Specific fee-exemption request fields, form numbers, posted fees, and submission instructions are not specified on the general information page and should be confirmed on the application PDF or by contacting the City contact listed online.^[1]

Action Steps

Start the application well before advertised deadlines—some venues and reviews require multiple weeks.
Provide charity registration documents and a short description of beneficiary use.
List each municipal fee you request to be waived and explain community benefit.
Contact the City permit officer early to clarify process and timelines.

Decisions on fee exemptions are administrative and may require Council approval for exceptions to published fee schedules.

FAQ

Who can apply for a charitable fee exemption?: Registered charities, not-for-profits and community groups can apply as part of the City special-event permit process.
Is there a published fee schedule for exemptions?: The City publishes Fees and Charges; specific exemption rules or amounts are detailed on the permit guidance or fee schedule when available.^[2]
How long does the exemption decision take?: Processing time is not specified on the general special-events information page. Contact the City permit office for timing estimates.

How-To

Determine eligibility: confirm your organization status and prepare charity registration documentation.
Complete the special-event permit application and indicate the fee-exemption request with reasons and a list of fees to waive.
Attach supporting documents: charity registration, event plan, proof of insurance if required, and budget showing community benefit.
Submit to the City contact listed on the special-events page and confirm receipt; follow up if clarification or additional materials are requested.^[1]
If denied, request a written decision and follow the appeal or review route described by the City (not specified on the general information page).

Key Takeaways

Start early and include clear charity documentation.
Itemize specific municipal fees you want waived.
Contact the City permit officer to confirm deadlines and required forms.