Rules and funding for block parties vary depending on municipality. We checked with three — Vancouver, Surrey and the district of North Vancouver — for a sampling of what is required, what they advise and what funding is available. Generally, municipalities encourage block parties as a way of reducing crime and building stronger communities.
Author of the article: Yvonne Zacharias Published Jul 03, 2014 • Last updated Jul 04, 2014 • 2 minute readYou can save this article by registering for free here. Or sign-in if you have an account.
Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page.
Rules and funding for block parties vary depending on municipality. We checked with three — Vancouver, Surrey and the district of North Vancouver — for a sampling of what is required, what they advise and what funding is available.
Generally, municipalities encourage block parties as a way of reducing crime and building stronger communities.
We apologize, but this video has failed to load. Try refreshing your browser, orThey require a permit and will allow block parties only on side streets, local roads and cul de sacs. Alcohol consumption is prohibited on public streets although what people do on their private property is their business. Organizers say there is rarely a problem with alcohol because of the family-oriented nature of these events.
Advertisement 2 Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLYSubscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada.
Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.
If you are a Home delivery print subscriber, unlimited online access is included in your subscription. Activate your Online Access Now
Article contentIn the district of North Vancouver, the permit fee is $40. The party must allow local and emergency vehicles to travel through the neighbourhood. The district did not respond to followup questions regarding other regulations.
The City of Surrey requires liability insurance with a minimum of $2 million coverage. A signature from all owners/residents affected by the road closure is required. Organizers are responsible for acquiring and erecting barricades blocking off streets and for cleanup after the event. Block parties must follow noise control bylaws and emergency services should be informed 48 hours before the event.
Under Surrey’s community enhancement partnership program, organizers of a block party can receive funding of up to $1,000.
The City of Vancouver requires you to apply at least two weeks before the event. You need 65 per cent of your neighbours to agree to it.
Insurance, barricades and permits are free in Vancouver. The city requests participants not to amplify music, keep access open to emergency vehicles, make sure tables and other structures are easy to move and that you clean up afterward.
Advertisement 3 Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Article contentIt also advises that locals lock the back doors to their houses, keep barbecues away from activities for children, keep equipment in sight and clean the area before the party, ensuring all debris like glass and garbage is swept away.
Organizers can help keep the event green by asking participants to bring their own cutlery and plates.
Block party organizers in Vancouver and parts of the Lower Mainland are eligible to receive up to $1,000 under the Vancouver Foundation’s neighbourhood small grants program. The foundation itself does not decide who will receive the grants. It works in partnership with resident volunteer advisory committees in non-profit organizations such as neighbourhood houses to determine which areas should receive funding.
