Understanding the process

The special event approval process provides support to organizers of outdoor special events to ensure all regulatory requirements are met to execute a safe and successful event.

The Special Event Regulatory Committee (SERC) receives and reviews all applications. SERC is a multi-disciplinary regulatory review committee established by the City of St. John’s, who review applications requiring regulatory approvals and operational coordination. SERC provides guidance and oversight for outdoor special events in the City, and ensures events are planned and delivered safely and responsibly

SERC will advise you on all the policies and procedures you must follow to receive approval. Organizers must be in compliance with all applicable federal, provincial and municipal legislation and regulations.

City officials or the SERC may, at any time, revoke approval for reasons of non-compliance with regulations or in the interest of public safety.

Special Event Regulatory Committee

This committee is comprised of representatives from various City departments as well as external government and volunteer agencies, including:

• Council Representative
• Corporate Risk and Recovery, City of St. John's
• Events and Services, City of St. John's
• Parking Services, City of St. John's
• Parks and Open Spaces, City of St. John's
• Planning and Development, City of St. John's
• Roads and Traffic, City of St. John's
• St. John's Regional Fire Department, City of St. John's
• Eastern Health
• Service NL
• NL Liquor Corporation
• Royal Newfoundland Constabulary
• St. John Ambulance