​Business in the Parks

Pilot Program Continues: April 1 to December 31, 2022

This program makes it easy for local businesses to offer services and activities during COVID-19 in three of Barrie's most popular public parks. The idea came about after consultations with the business community as part of the City's Economic Recovery Action Plan. ​

The Business in the Parks Program provides new opportunities to maximize capacity and revenue generation.  All activities offered must operate in a closed format (i.e., participants have to pre-register to participate in the activity).​ Businesses and others can apply to book outdoor space:

• Meridian Place (65 Dunlop Street East)
• Sunnidale Park (227 Sunnidale Road)
• Kiwanis Pavilion at South Shore Park 
• Cheltenham Park
• East Bayfield Community Park
• Eastview Park
• Ferndale Park
• Golden Meadow Park
• Little Lake Park
• Lougheed Park
• Madelaine Park
• Painswick Park
• Sandringham Park
• Shear Park
• St.Vincent Park
• Tyndale Park

Apply Online

Interested applicants who meet the below criteria are invited to apply online to book a park. Eligible applicants must submit their application 15 business days prior to their requested date for consideration.

City staff will review each proposal for eligibility requirements and follow up with the business to take them through the permit process. Only after the permit is granted is the application considered approved.​

Eligibility Criteria

• ​Your activity must operate in a closed format (participants have to pre-register to participate, for example, private dance classes, yoga classes, art workshop, meeting, etc.);
• Your business can provide a COVID-19 safety plan that meets the guidelines of the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit. This is necessary to have in place before final permit approval;
• You can provide proof of insurance for your commercial operation from an insurer licensed to do business in Ontario. Note, the corporation of the City of Barrie must be named as an additional insured;
• Your activity cannot be based around serving or preparing food, beverage (including alcohol) or cannabis products.​
  

Hours of Operation

The hours of operation for the program are 7am–9pm, with one hour before and after each booking for set up and take down.

Fees

Hours can be split between multiple sessions of the same program or class. For example, (6) x 2 hour bookings for a series of yoga classes.

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