Patios, Food Trucks and Special Events

Bringing Business and Events into Public Spaces

Looking to expand your restaurant with a patio, serve up something great from a food truck, or host a festival in Crowsnest Pass? This page outlines how to apply for permits to use public sidewalks, parks, and other municipal spaces for business or community events.

You’ll find the details, forms, and contacts you need to get started—whether you're setting out tables, rolling up in a vending unit, or planning something bigger.

Sidewalk and Street Patios

The Sidewalk and Street Patio Policy facilitates the development of seasonal outdoor seating for eating and drinking establishments on public sidewalk and/or street spaces within the commercial and retails areas of the Crowsnest Pass. 

The following details will be required to apply:

  • Pre-Application Meeting with the Development Department
  • Applicant Information
  • Owner Information (if different from Applicant)
  • Business Details
  • Sidewalk and Street Patio Details
  • Site Plan (See section on Sidewalk and Street Patio Details for more information)
  • Floor Plan and Elevations
  • Proof of Insurance
  • Additional Approvals if Necessary (Alberta Health Services, Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission, Consultation with Neighbouring Businesses, etc.)

Please Note: Sidewalk and Street Patio Applications must be applied for on an annual basis. 

Sidewalk and Street Patio Policy

Sidewalk and Street Patio Procedure

Blank & Example Sidewalk and Street Patio Permit Site Plan

Sidewalk and Street Patio Application

Mobile Vending and Food Trucks

Mobile Vending in Crowsnest Pass

The Municipality welcomes mobile vendors—like food trucks, pushcarts, and ice cream trucks—to operate in public spaces such as sidewalks, parks, and sports fields. If you're interested in running a mobile vending business on public property, you'll need both a Business License and a Mobile Vending Permit.

This approach helps support small and seasonal businesses by offering lower-cost, flexible spaces to get started. At the same time, the policy ensures vending happens safely and in ways that fit well with each location.

Note: This policy applies only to vendors operating on municipal public property. Different rules apply for vending on private land, at approved farmers' markets, or during special events.

To learn more or start your application, please contact reception at 403-562-8833

Mobile Vending Policy

Mobile Vending Procedure

Mobile Vendor Application Form

More About Business Licenses

 

Festivals and Events

Hosting a Festival or Special Event

The Municipality of Crowsnest Pass supports community festivals and special events that help bring people together and celebrate local culture. If you're planning an event in a municipal park, facility, or other public space, you'll need to apply for an Event Permit through our Community Services department.

Events must meet safety and insurance requirements, follow all relevant regulations, and align with community values. Organizers are responsible for planning logistics like clean-up, parking, and emergency plans. Depending on the nature of the event, additional approvals and permits may be needed—for example, for food service or alcohol.

Applications should be submitted at least 90 days in advance to allow time for review and coordination.

To learn more or get started, contact Community Services at 403-563-2209.

Community Festivals and Special Events Policy

Festival and Special Event Application Form