With the adoption of Village of Pemberton Zoning Bylaw No. 832, 2018 on July 24, 2018, backyard hen keeping became a permitted use on residential properties in the R-1 Zone. Subsequently, sections 12, 13 and 14 of the Consolidated Village of Pemberton Animal Control Bylaw No. 839, 2018,  adopted on October 2, 2018, added regulations pertaining to the keeping of backyard hens. These regulations were put in place to ensure that backyard hen keeping is done responsibly and in a manner that avoids negative impacts on hens, neighborhood residents and wildlife, and requires that backyard hen keepers obtain a permit for a nominal one-time fee of $25.00.

Backyard Hen Keeping Permit Application

Consolidated Animal Control Bylaw No. 839, 2018

Application and documents

Boulevard Improvement Permit

Boulevard Maintenance Bylaw 713, 2012

Every owner or occupier of property adjacent to a boulevard or ditch must maintain that area in a clean and safe condition. Residents may not place any rocks, fill, fencing, landscaping ties, rails, bricks, concrete structures, etc., on the boulevard or in a ditch adjacent to the owner's property unless authorized by the Village of Pemberton through a Boulevard Improvement Permit (BIP), which are free of charge.

These requirements are put in place to maintain drainage systems, protect utilities and to ensure unobstructed corridors for snow clearing operations.

For more information, refer to Boulevard Maintenance Bylaw 713, 2012.

Please head to the Building Services Page for all Building Permit applications and requirements.

Application and documents

Burning permits can be obtained from the Pemberton Fire Rescue Fire Hall located at 1350 Aster Street, Monday to Friday, between 8:30am to 4:30pm.  

BEFORE STARTING ANY KIND OF OUTDOOR FIRE, CHECK THE WILDFIRE MANAGEMENT BRANCH WEBSITE FOR THE FIRE DANGER RATING AND FIRE PROHIBITIONS AND AREA RESTRICTIONS FOR THE PEMBERTON AREA (PART OF THE COASTAL FIRE CENTRE) AND OBTAIN A BURN PERMIT FROM THE VILLAGE OF PEMBERTON

All open air fires within The Village of Pemberton require an Open Air Fire Permit. The Village of Pemberton may issue a Burning Permit within Village Boundaries for the purpose of burning organic material only and up to 0.5 cubic metre in size.

Village of Pemberton Fire Prevention Bylaw No. 744, 2013 provides details for the following:

Open Air Fire Permits are required for recreational purposes on all residential properties. Each permit is valid for 1 calendar year.

Open Air Fire Permits are required for burning yard waste. A permit is issued for maximum of 2 weeks and on the following terms and conditions:

a) only burning of grass, weeds, garden waste, tree clippings, dead leaves, and dead grass resulting from the cleaning of gardens and yards, in small fires, shall be permitted and must not be larger than 1 cubic meter; Village of Pemberton Fire Prevention Bylaw No. 744, 2013

b) open air fires for burning yard waste may only occur during daylight hours, at times and dates as designated by the Fire Chief;

c) every person to whom an open air fire permit for burning yard waste has been issued shall, at all times, place and keep a competent person in charge of the fire(s) while the fire(s) are burning or smouldering and until such fires are completely extinguished, and shall provide that person with sufficient appliances and equipment in order to prevent the fire(s) from getting beyond control or causing damage, or becoming hazardous to life or property, or becoming a nuisance;

d) open air fires for burning yard waste may only occur on days when the smoke ventilation index, as reported by the Meteorological Service of Canada, is at a value of 55 or greater;

e) open air fires for burning yard waste shall not be started when wind and weather are such that to do so is likely to be hazardous to life or property or create a nuisance;

f) the Fire Chief may refuse to issue or may cancel an open air fire permit for burning yard waste and/or order a fire extinguished whenever, in the opinion of the Fire Chief having regard to all the circumstances, burning may be hazardous to life or property or may create a nuisance.

If you discover an uncontrolled fire contact Pemberton Fire Rescue by calling 911.

Quick Tips Before You Burn:

• That no campfire bans or open fire restrictions have been issued - www.bcwildfire.ca or toll free 1-888-336-7378.
• Check the venting index on the Environment Canada website for air quality conditions: www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/bcairquality/readings/ventilation-index.html or call 1-888-281-2992.
• refer to and comply with the Wildfire Act and Open Burning Smoke Control Regulation:www.bcwildfire.ca
• Do not leave fire unattended.
• Ensure fire is extinguished before leaving the area.

Who needs a Business Licence?

The Village of Pemberton Business Licence Bylaw No. 855, 2019 states that resident and non-resident businesses operating within our boundaries must have a valid and current business licence. A business licence is your formal permission to operate a business within the Village of Pemberton.

Persons are deemed to be carrying on a business if they are involved in any of the following activities:

Dealing in, buying, selling, bartering, renting, or displaying any commodity for profit or gain; advertising a business; or rendering or offering to render professional, personal, contractual, or other services for profit or gain.

Prior to commencing business in the Village of Pemberton, a business licence must be obtained. If your business is located in the Village, your business licence must be posted on the premises in a conspicuous place at all times. If you are a non-resident, you must carry the licence while conducting business within Pemberton.

The Village supports local merchants by encouraging the use of local suppliers and by purchasing locally. All businesses doing business within the Village of Pemberton or for the Village of Pemberton must have a valid business licence.

How do I apply?

Business licence applications can be made by downloading an application package and submitting it by email, by mail, or in person. Paper applications are available at the Village office. The annual licence fee is due at the time of application.

The Business Licence Application Process

The process of obtaining a business licence usually takes 2 to 3 weeks, but may take more or less time depending on the complexity of your application and the time of year.

Step 1: Application
Complete a business licence application and submit it to businesslicences@pemberton.ca or in person, along with your payment. Incomplete applications will be returned.

Payment may be made in person at our office at 7400 Prospect Street by cash, cheque, or debit, by sending a cheque in the mail, or through our online credit card service.

Step 2: Review
Application is reviewed by Development Services and referred to other departments as necessary.

Step 3: Inspection
Any necessary inspections are performed.

Please see our Fire Inspection Guidelines for information regarding fire safety inspections.

Step 4: Issuance of Business Licence and posting on Village website
Your licence will be mailed to you once it has been approved and issued. Should you choose, your business information will be listed on the Village of Pemberton's Business Directory Listing at this time.

Step 5: Annual Renewal of Business Licence
All Business Licences issued under Business Licence Bylaw No. 855, 2019 are valid for the calendar year and expire on December 31st except if a Business Licence is previously forfeited under this Bylaw. You must renew your Business Licence by January 31st of the current calendar year. Failure to renew your Business Licence on or before January 31 will result in a penalty fee in addition to the annual Business Licence Fee for the renewal period. Please see Schedule F of Fees and Charges Bylaw for current fees.

Applications

Please select one of the business types from the list below:

• Bed and Breakfast
• Commercial
• Home-Based
• Non-Resident
• Special Event
• Community Event
• Short-Term Vacation Rental - Please consult with staff before making any fee payments to ensure compliance with our bylaws
• Temporary, Mobile or Portable Vendor
• Cannabis Retail
• Cannabis Production

Business Licence Changes and Cancellations
Business Licence Information Update 
Business Licence Cancellation Request Form

Other Forms
Strata Authorization
Property Owner Authorization
Pemberton Fire Rescue Checklist

To submit forms by email,  please forward the completed forms to businesslicences@pemberton.ca.

The Village of Pemberton and the Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce would like to extend a warm welcome to prospective and new businesses in Pemberton.

If you are planning to establish a business in the Village of Pemberton and would like to meet with the Welcoming Committee to discuss your business and business related issues, please contact the Chamber.

If you are thinking of opening a restaurant, check out the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training 'Starting a restaurant in B.C.' guide for information on opening and maintaining a restaurant in BC.

Who is involved in the process?

Depending on your application, the following departments may be involved:

Development Services: approval of proposed business use, lot size, and parking.

Building: approval of a building permit for proposed building alterations, especially structural changes.

Pemberton Fire Rescue: approval of fire safety equipment installations, alarms, smoke detectors, exits, etc.

Provincial Public Health Officer: approval required if the business involves personal services or the preparation, distribution, and selling of foods other than pre-packaged or pre-bottled foodstuffs.

Home Based Business

Proposed home occupation uses are subject to zoning and other regulations as set out in the Village of Pemberton Zoning Bylaw. General regulations are outlined in Section 7.16 of the Zoning Bylaw. Be sure to check the bylaw for regulations specific to your zoning area.

Mobile Vending

Mobile Vendors are defined as a person carrying on the business of operating a mobile store, who goes from place to place or house to house selling or offering for sale, or who vends on any highway, street, lane or public place, any goods, wares, merchandise, or foodstuffs. Mobile vendors include, but are not limited to: hot dog carts; highway-side vendors; and door to door sales. The annual cost of a business licence for a mobile vendor is $300.

If you are considering a food truck business, please see our Summer Street Food Pilot Program.

Business Licence Bylaws

CONSOLIDATED VERSION

Bylaw No. 855, 2019 - Adopted February 19, 2019

Amending Bylaws

Amendment Bylaw No. 871, 2019 - Adopted November 19, 2019

Amendment Bylaw No. 890, 2020 - Adopted November 3, 2020

Amendment Bylaw No. 894, 2021 - Adopted April 27, 2021

Amendment Bylaw No. 934, 2022 - Adopted August 30, 2022

Sign Permits

All signs require a permit. If you plan to put up a sign for your new business, please complete the sign permit application form and email to admin@pemberton.ca.

Application and Documents

Download Dog Licence Application

Consolidated Animal Control Bylaw No. 839, 2018

Found a dog?

Please contact the Village's Bylaw Enforcement Officer at 604 894 6135 ext 241 or at bylaw@pemberton.ca.

Dog licences

All dogs (including puppies) living within municipal boundaries must have a valid licence worn at all times.  If your dog is licensed and your contact information kept up to date, you can be contacted in the event that your pet is found.

Proceeds from dog licences go towards supplying doggie bag dispensers and partial support of Pemberton Animal Wellbeing Society (PAWS).

Pemberton dog licences are available at the Village of Pemberton office (located at 7400 Prospect Street), Whiskers Pet Shop and the Animal Barn. Annual dog licences are valid from January 1 to December 31 each year.

Annual dog fees

As per Schedule C of Fees and Charges Bylaw No, 905, 2021, the licence fee schedule is as follows:

Dogs must be leashed

Dogs must be on a leash and under your control at all times on municipal property, including trails and parks, with the exception of the Pemberton Off Leash Dog Park located on Cottonwood St, behind the Pemberton BMX track. Dogs are not allowed on the swimming beach at One Mile Lake, however there is a designated "dog beach" on One Mile Lake opposite the swimming beach. 

The scoop on poop

Whether on public or private property, pick up after your pet. Dog excrement is unsanitary, unsightly and can be a health hazard. For your convenience, there are dog bag dispensers at various locations throughout the village. If you find a doggie bag dispenser in need of refills, please contact us and we will have it filled.

Especially in the winter when the weather tends to temporarily hide the evidence; please remember that it's the law to pick up after your dog. Failure to do so will result in a fine from Village Bylaw.

Application and documents

Filming Bylaw Consolidated

Filming Policy

Film Permit Application Form

Business Licence Application 

With 360 degree views, Pemberton offers a spectacular backdrop for filming purposes. Just 3 hours from Vancouver and 20 minutes north of Whistler, Pemberton has a history in farming, a unique village character, and sweeping mountain vistas. Any person or company who is interested in accessing Village of Pemberton Municipal property for the purposes of commercial photography, video, film and television must obtain a Filming Licence and Business Licence from the Village of Pemberton. Complete the application forms and return them to the Village of Pemberton Office for review. News Media are exempt.

Fees

Each production will be subject to the appropriate licensing fees and deposits as described below.

If filming is taking place in a park or public space, including the Downtown Community Barn or on a public roadway, a Parks and Public Spaces Permit is also required. The municipality also reserves the right to establish "film sensitive zones," which may require additional fees for filming within the municipality.

Film Credits for Pemberton

• 2022 - Kia Commercial - Feels Like Home
• 2022 - Audi Commercial - Means of Production
• 2022 - Project Chase - The Capital Media Company  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=175GAmhgzSk
• 2021 - Arc'teryx S22 Arctype Campaign
• 2021 - Zippo TV Commercial - Maritime Films Ltd.
• 2021 - "Grounded in my Roots" - In light Films - Documentary
• 2021 - Photo Shoot
• 2020 - GoRVING Commercial
• 2019 - Rugged Luggage - WDI Media
• 2019 - HALLMARK - Made for TV Movie - A Family Christmas Gift
• 2019 - Mercedes Commercial filmed at Pemberton Airport
• 2019 - Audi Commercial filmed at Pemberton Airport
• 2018 - Acura RDX Demo
• 2018 - Pepsi Commercial
• 2018 - Eye On The Ball Productions
• 2018 - Chevy Commercial - Duffy Lake
• 2017 - Dicks Sporting Goods - Photoshoot
• 2016 – Lincoln Christmas Car Commercial
• 2016 – XBOX Video Game
• 2016 - Made for TV Movie: Cold Zone
• 2015 - Nissan Car Commercial filmed at Pemberton Airport
• 2015 - BMW Car Commercial filmed at Pemberton Airport
• 2015 - Brownshoes Catalogue Shoot
• 2015 - Walmart Commercial - Circle Productions
• 2013 - Subaru Film Shoot filmed at Pemberton Airport
• 2012 - Proctor & Gamble Olympic Commercial
• 2011 - Feature film: Twilight, Breaking Dawn
• 2011 - Kia Car Commercial
• 2007/08 - Feature film: X-Files: I Want to Believe 2006
• 2007/08 - Feature film: Tyler Perry's Why Did I Get Married?
• 2006 - Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer
• 2004 - Mountain Dew commercial filmed at Pemberton Airport
• 2003 - Smart Set Clothing Co. fashion photo shoot at One Mile Lake
• 2003 - Hyundai car commercial filmed at Pemberton Airport
• 2002 - Chevy truck commercial filmed at One Mile Lake

Transport Canada regulates the use of drones/UAV to keep the public and our airspace safe.  Before you fly your drone, make sure you understand the rules that apply and follow them.  Transport Canada's current guidelines state that drones should be flown:

• at least nine kilometres away from airports
• no higher than 90 metres above the ground; and
• at least 150 metres away from people, buildings and vehicles.

To use your UAV for any form of work or research, you are legally required to apply for a Transport Canada Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC). This applies to all UAVs used for filming or to capture event footage and regardless of how much the UAV weighs.

Please note that you are required to notify the Village of Pemberton of any drone use upon submission of your Filming Application or Special Event Application.

Please see below infographic from Transport Canada to understand how the regulations apply to your drone use.

For more information regarding thelegal and safe use of drones, visit the Transport Canada website.

24 Hour Hydrant Use Permit Application

If you have recently undergone landscaping improvements, such as seeding or sod installment on a substantial portion of the property, that requires daily sprinkling, watering or irrigation you may apply for an Outdoor Water Use Permit for a fee of $30.00.  

Download Outdoor Water Use Permit Application

Details of allowable conditions are set out in Section 7 of the Outdoor Water Use Regulation Bylaw No. 792, 2015. 

Questions?  Contact the Village Office at 604.894.6135 or admin@pemberton.ca.

Please see Recreation Services for more information.

Application and documents

Parks ahd Public Spaces Permit Application

Parks and Public Spaces Permit FAQs

Village of Pemberton Parks and Public Spaces Use Bylaw No. 797, 2016, Consolidated

What is a Parks and Public Spaces Permit?

A Park and Public Spaces Permit is a permit that grants to a person(s), group or organization permission to use a park or public space that is on Village of Pemberton property. For further information, refer to Village of Pemberton Parks and Public Spaces Use Bylaw No. 797, 2016, Consolidated.

Why is a Parks and Public Spaces Permit required?

A Park and Public Spaces Permit is required to:

• Ensure all Park and Public Spaces users have accessibility and availability to parks and public spaces within the Village
• Notify the Village of Pemberton of events happening within the boundaries, avoiding an overlap of events
• Confirm adequate amenities will be available and requirements are met
• Ensure all Park and Public Spaces users have acquired the appropriate level of insurance 

When do I need a Parks and Public Spaces Permit?

If you answer yes to any of the following questions, you will most likely require a Park and Public Spaces Permit:

• Will you be closing off an area, holding an event or occupying an area that may affect other park and public space users?
• Are additional services required e.g. public washrooms, event equipment (tables/chairs/AV etc), power, water, additional parking, emergency services?
• Will you be operating a business or commercial operation from the Park or Public Space?
• Is the intention of the event to make a profit?

For example - if a school class is having a picnic lunch at the park that will not affect other park and public space users- they don't require a park use permit. However if the whole school is doing a "Sports Day" where they are bringing additional equipment and will take up considerable park space - they would require a permit.

NOTE: The Village reserves the right to require a group or organization to obtain a Park and Public Spaces Permit.

If you are planning an event or gathering within the Village of Pemberton and will have more than 300 guests or attendees, you require a Special Events Permit. For further information, see Special Events Guideline and Bylaw No. 750, 2014.

For more information visit the Special Events Permits Page.

Download the Agency Contact Information Sheet

Is there a Fee?

To obtain a Park and Public Spaces Permit, there is a $30.00 fee for community non-profit events and $75.00 for commercial events (a valid Village of Pemberton business licence is required for commercial & corporate organizations).

"Not-for-Profit Event" means an event organized by a not-for-profit organization, registered society, or person, that does not generate revenue or that generates revenue exclusively to support not-for-profit organization(s) or is generated to sustain the event. The following fees apply to not-for-profit events:

"Commercial Event" means an event organized by a business for the purpose of profit or gain. Commercial events include, but are not limited to, providing of a professional service, an industrial or commercial undertaking of any nature, commercial filming and any events where tickets are sold for profit. Commercial event organizers must hold a valid Village of Pemberton business licence. The following fees apply for commercial events:

*Venue Fees include GST.

Parks and public space users must take out "event" insurance for bodily injury and property damage, in the amount of $5,000,000 each occurrence, naming the Village of Pemberton. Insurance may be obtained through a provider of your choice or you may purchase Insurance through the Village's User Group Insurance Policy. Please contact the Village Office for more information.

How Do I Apply?

To apply for a Park and Public Spaces Permit, you can apply in person by completing Application Form and drop it off to the Village office a minimum of four (4) weeks prior to your event. You can also complete the form electronically and email it to admin@pemberton.ca. You will be contacted upon approval of the application and asked to complete any outstanding requirements prior to the permit being issued.

The Village will review your application and you may be asked to provide additional information. The more your event impacts the community, the more lead-up time and information you will need.

What are the Requirements?

For the complete list of requirements, refer to the terms and conditions on the Parks and Public Spaces Permit Application Form.

NOTE: Upon review of the application and depending on the type of event, the Village has the right to require additional amenities or services be provided or arranged for, prior to the Park and Public Spaces Use Permit being issued.

If you are unsure if you require a Park and Public Spaces Use Permit, or have any questions, please contact the Village office.

How do I obtain a Liquor Licence?

For hosting events that serve alcohol, please refer to the Community Alcohol Policy Guidelines for best practices.

The Province is implementing a new online application process for the approval of liquor licences for small, low risk events. Offering online applications for Special Occasion Licences (SOLs) is expected to enhance public safety by providing officials with information in real-time about events happening in their communities.

A number of new policy changes and operating rules for SOLs are also being introduced:

• New SOL frequency limits - up to three events per month, up to 24 total per year, per applicant;
• Applicants will be required to obtain local government/First Nation approvals in advance for events on their lands or properties. Applicants without the necessary approvals may have the licence cancelled by police or the LCLB;
• Local governments and First Nations will be notified of all SOLs issued in their area. They are encouraged to continue taking part in CAPE or Festival Committees, may impose conditions on SOLs under local bylaws;
• Changes to SOL Maximum Price Schedule;
• Police and liquor inspectors will undertake a review, based on the type of event and number of people attending; and,
• Liquor inspectors will review and approve all SOLs where 500 or more people are attending and the security plan provided.

For more information, please visit: UBCM, New Process for Approving Special Occasion Licences

A Patio Permit is required to legally permit the use of public right of ways (sidewalks and parking stalls); or the occupancy of required parking stalls on private property for patio and other encroachments for the purpose of providing outdoor seating and display areas. 

To apply for a Patio Permit please download and submit the Patio Permit application.

Please review the application or reference the Patio Permit Policy for a detailed list of application requirements.

Patio Permits are required commencing April 1st and last until October 31st of each year. All structures must be removed by the first week of November, unless otherwise approved in writing by the Manager of Development Services.

How much does a patio permit cost?
A non refundable fee of $50.00 is required.

How do I apply for a patio permit?
Please submit a completed application to the Village office or by email to developmentservices@pemberton.ca

How long does my patio permit last?
Permits last until October 31 each year.

Application and documents

Sign Bylaw No. 380, 1995, Consolidated

Sign Permit Application Form

A sign permit is required for all signs within the Village.

To apply for a sign permit, please contact our team by email at developmentservices@pemberton.ca for assistance with completing the application form.

Applicants are advised not to order their sign from the manufacturer until the permit has been issued. 

Signs erected without a permit will be subject to a fine of $100.00.

Fees are payable upon approval of the permit application. Permits will not be issued until payment has been received.

SIGN PERMIT FEES

In addition to the $40 application fee, the following fees may apply for each sign involving structural design (freestanding, fascia or awning signs) and each sign encroaching over a street.

ELECTION SIGN PERMITS

Pursuant to section 7.2 of the Village of Pemberton Sign Bylaw No. 380, 1995, candidates in a municipal, provincial or federal election must hold a valid Election Sign Permit prior to installing any election signs. 

An election sign may not exceed 2m2 in area or 2.4m in height.  No sign may be placed on public property including a park, road allowance or land under the control of the Ministry of Transportation and Highways.

Election Sign Permit Fee:  $30

Election Sign Deposit:  $200

The Election Sign Deposit will be returned upon confirmation that all signs have been removed.  Signs must be removed within seven (7) days after the date of the election.

Election Sign Permit Application

Application & Documents

Special Event Permit Application

Special Event Permit Guidelines

Agency Contact Information Form

What is a Special Event Permit?

The Village of Pemberton recognizes the importance of Special Events in enhancing the quality of life, tourism, culture, recreation and education and in providing economic benefits to the local economy.

A Special Event Permit is a permit which grants, to a person(s), group or organization, permission to host an event which is either on Village of Pemberton property, or is expected to incur extraordinary costs to the Village. For further information, refer to Bylaw No. 750, 2014, Consolidated

When is a Special Event Permit required?

A Special Events Permit is required to:

• Assist with the planning of a special event
• Ensure provision of adequate health, safety, sanitation and protective measures of persons attending the special events.
• Notify the Village of Pemberton of events happening within the boundaries, avoiding an overlap of events.
• Ensure community members have accessibility and availability to amenities within the Village
• Confirm adequate amenities will be available for the Special Event and necessary requirements are met.

When do I need a Special Event Permit?

If you answer yes to any of the following questions, you will most likely require a Special Events Permit:

• Is the event likely to be attended by more than three hundred (300) individuals or more per day?
• Is it likely that the Village will be required to provide additional policing, highway and traffic control, water and other services, or deal with potential adverse impacts such as nuisance?
• Will a fee be charged for attendance or is the Special event being held for the purpose of commercial profit or gain?

The following events most likely will not require a Permit:

• Special Events held or sponsored by the Village;
• Special Events held by Sea to Sky School District No. 48 & No. 93;
• Special Events held outdoors that can facilitate the attendance of less than 300 people and applied for by a local business or a community or rate payer association incorporated under the Society Act and operating within the Village unless the event is a "Commercial Event";
• Special Events facilitated by organizations or groups that hold a valid Parks and Public Space Use Permit issued by the CAO;

NOTE: The Village reserves the right to require a group or organization to obtain a Special Events Permit.

When do I apply?

To apply for a Special Events Permit, fill out and return a completed application form to the Village office a minimum of:

Minor Events:  at least sixty (60) days prior to any Site preparations for the Special Event;

Major Events:  at least one hundred and eighty (180) days prior to any Site preparations for the Special Event.

You may be contacted upon receipt of the application to complete any outstanding information prior to the start of the application process.

How do I apply?

If you are considering hosting an event in the Pemberton area, contact the Village office with the key details - what, when, where, and how many - and the Village will let you know if you need an approval. The Village will also let you know if you need permits related to your event, and can help you work through that process.

If you need to get an approval, gather all of the necessary information, complete the application, and submit it as soon as possible.

The Village will review the application and will contact you. You will be advised if more information is needed, or if the Village's partners need to review the event.

Wait for the reviews, if required, and provide any additional information needed. The more your event impacts the community and the more the special events office has to consult with other Village departments and outside partners, the more time and information you will need and the more you need to work with staff.

What are the requirements?

Requirements vary based on the size and type of the Special Event. For a complete list of requirements which may be requested, refer to the Special Events Guideline and Bylaw No. 750, 2014. Special Events Permit requirements include:

• Completed Special Events application form
• Written Approvals
• Site and Emergency Plan
• Event insurance
• Application Fee
• Refundable security deposit
• Valid Village of Pemberton Business Licence

NOTE: Upon review of the application and depending on the type of event, the Village has the right to require additional amenities or services be provided or arranged for, prior to the Special Events Permit being issued.

If you are unsure if you require a Special Events Permit, or have any questions, please contact the Village office.

Serving alcohol?

For hosting events that serve alcohol, please refer to the Community Alcohol Policy Guidelines for best practices.

The Province is implementing a new online application process for the approval of liquor licences for small, low risk events. Offering online applications for Special Occasion Licences (SOLs) is expected to enhance public safety by providing officials with information in real-time about events happening in their communities.

A number of new policy changes and operating rules for SOLs are also being introduced:

• New SOL frequency limits - up to three events per month, up to 24 total per year, per applicant;
• Applicants will be required to obtain local government/First Nation approvals in advance for events on their lands or properties.  Applicants without the necessary approvals may have the licence cancelled by police or the LCLB;
• Local governments and First Nations will be notified of all SOLs issued in their area.  They are encouraged to continue taking part in CAPE or Festival Committees, may impose conditions on SOLs under local bylaws;
• Changes to SOL Maximum Price Schedule;
• Police and liquor inspectors will undertake a review, based on the type of event and number of people attending; and,
• Liquor inspectors will review and approve all SOLs where 500 or more people are attending and the security plan provided.

For more information, please visit:  UBCM, New Process for Approving Special Occasion Licences

Is there a fee?

Yes, there is a fee to obtain a Special Events Permit. The fee is based on the size of the event and participants attending the event. For more information on the Special Event Application Fee, refer to Schedule Q, Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 905, 2021.

Application and documents

Please head to the Building Services Page for all Building Permit applications and requirements.

Site Alteration Bylaw 822, 2017, Consolidated October 8, 2021

To ensure that clearing of a site will only take place if development is imminent, and to reduce the risk that lands will be cleared and sit empty for long periods of time, the Village of Pemberton has implemented a Site Alteration Permit process. 

Do I need a Site Alteration Permit?

Anyone wishing to make alterations to their property must apply for and be issued a Site Alteration Permit. Exceptions are made, for example, if depositing or removing less than 10 cubic metres of soil in a calendar year (refer to 7.0 Permit Exemptions).  Please note that a condition of the Site Alteration Permit issuance is that all other permits and permissions, for example a Development Permit, Development Variance Permit, or Temporary Use Permit, must first be in place.    

For more information, refer to Site Alteration Bylaw 822, 2017, Consolidated October 8, 2021.