Temporary Curb Lane Permit - Burlington Bylaw

Transportation Ontario 4 Minutes Read · published May 24, 2026 Flag of Ontario

This guide explains the process to request a temporary curb lane permit for events or film shoots on city streets in Burlington, Ontario. It covers who issues permits, typical requirements for lane or curb access, how to apply, expected timelines and what to do if your production or event needs traffic control, parking exemptions or equipment on the curb. Use this as a practical checklist before you schedule street alterations or on-street filming.

Start early: allow extra lead time for traffic plans and coordination with emergency services.

Overview

Temporary curb lane permits are issued when an event or film shoot requires use of a curb lane, loading/unloading zones, or temporary obstructing of sidewalks and roadways. Depending on location and scope, permits may involve Transportation Services, By-law Enforcement and Parks or Recreation if city property is used. Large shoots commonly need a traffic management plan and insurance.

Permits, approvals and typical requirements

  • Application with site plan, hours and contact information.
  • Advance notice: recommended minimum lead time is stated on city permit pages; check the application page for current timelines. Special events and park permits[1]
  • Traffic management plan showing closures, signage, cones and certified flaggers when required.
  • Proof of insurance and indemnity naming the City of Burlington as additional insured where required.
  • Contact person on site during the permit period and 24-hour emergency contact for the producer or organizer.
Certain curb or lane uses may require separate utility or provincial approvals; confirm with the city early.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement for unauthorized curb or lane use is carried out by the City of Burlington By-law Enforcement and Transportation Services. Specific fines, escalation steps and non-monetary penalties depend on the controlling bylaw or permit conditions; when exact amounts are not posted on the city permit page, this guide notes that they are "not specified on the cited page" and points to the relevant application pages for contact and submission details.

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page for curb permits; see the city permit pages for any listed fees and fee schedules.[2]
  • Escalation: first and repeat offences and continuing contraventions are addressed under the applicable bylaw or permit conditions; specific escalation amounts or stepwise fines are not specified on the cited permit pages.
  • Non-monetary orders: the city may issue stop-work orders, require immediate removal of equipment, rescind the permit, or require remediation at the permit holder's expense.
  • Court and Provincial Offences: enforcement may proceed under provincial offences processes when bylaws are contravened; the permit holder may be summonsed under the applicable regulation.
  • Inspection and complaints: members of the public can report unauthorized curb use or unsafe closures to By-law Enforcement; the city permit pages list contact pathways and complaint forms.
Operate only under an approved permit and the conditions it sets to avoid fines or stop-work orders.

Applications & Forms

Application names, forms and fees for curb or lane use are listed on the city's permits pages. If a specific form or fee for a "temporary curb lane permit" is not separately published, applicants should use the event or street occupancy application listed by the city and contact the permits office for direction.

  • Where to apply: the city's permits and licences pages explain application steps and submission methods; review required attachments and insurance requirements. Permits and licences[2]
  • Fees: check the permit page or fee schedule linked from the applications page; if no fee is shown there, it is not specified on the cited page.
  • Deadlines: submit as early as possible; lead times vary by location and complexity and are stated on the application page.
If no distinct curb-permit form is published, the city will direct you to the correct street occupancy or special events permit.

How-To

  1. Plan site layout and identify curb lanes, parking and pedestrian routes.
  2. Prepare a traffic management plan and insurance certificate as required by the city's application checklist.
  3. Submit the application through the city's permits portal or email address listed on the permits page and await confirmation.[2]
  4. Coordinate with city reviewers for any requested changes, supply additional information, and obtain written approval before arriving on site.
  5. Pay any required fees and comply with inspection or on-site directions during the permit period.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to use a curb lane for loading during a film shoot?
Yes. Using a curb lane or blocking a lane for loading typically requires a temporary curb lane or street occupancy permit and may require a traffic management plan and insurance.
How far in advance should I apply?
Lead times vary by complexity and location; check the city's permits page for current guidance and submit as early as possible.
What happens if I use the curb without a permit?
The city may issue fines, stop-work orders or require removal of equipment; specific fine amounts are not specified on the cited permit pages.

Key Takeaways

  • Apply early and include a traffic management plan and insurance.
  • Operating without a permit risks enforcement actions and removal of equipment.
  • Contact the city permits office for the correct form if a curb-permit is not listed.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Burlington - Special Events and Park Permits
  2. [2] City of Burlington - Permits and Licences

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