Parks Special Permit – Special (Smaller) Events

Anyone organising a gathering in a national park that doesn't meet the criteria for a larger event. This includes beach parties, barbecues, small performances, and similar organised activities.

Apply online using the Special Event Permit Application, or in person at the Department of Parks office, ground floor, Global House, 43 Church Street, Hamilton.

Apply online

Download permit form

Submit your application at least five working days before the event. This allows time for review, scheduling, and coordination to ensure the park can safely accommodate the activity.

Fees are calculated based on attendance and are charged per day. All fees must be paid at the time of booking. Additional fees incurred will be invoiced. Permits are issued on a first come, first served basis.

By applying for a Special Event Permit, you agree to the following conditions. Failure to comply may result in legal action under the Bermuda National Parks Act 1986 and the Bermuda National Parks Regulations 1988.

Permit scope. A Special Event Permit grants permission to hold an organised event; it does not give exclusive rights to a particular spot. Permits expire at midnight on the day they are approved. Reservation of a specific area is only possible where a Parks Officer has provided prior written permission (e.g. weddings and large events).

Noise and music. Radios must be played at a reasonable volume so as not to disturb other park visitors. No generators or live bands are permitted (fun castles are an exception). A maximum of two functions with amplified music will be permitted per month, and only at Chaplin Bay, Coney Island, Ferry Reach, and Admiralty House between April and November.

Trading. No trading (including the sale of alcohol or food) is permitted without prior permission from the Director of Parks under Section 8 of the National Parks Regulations 1988.

Litter and waste. The permit holder is responsible for removing all litter produced by the event. All refuse must be disposed of properly. Coals and ashes from barbecues must be extinguished and disposed of. Do not bury hot coals in the sand or throw them in the ocean.

Barbecues. All barbecuing must be done using proper metal barbecue equipment.

Bonfires. Bonfires are not permitted at John Smith's Bay Park, Port Royal Cove, West Whale Bay Park, Jobson's Cove, or Elbow Beach. All campfires and bonfires must be in or on a metal apparatus; open fires must never be built directly on the sand. Refer to the Bonfire Policy Form for full conditions.

Specific activity restrictions. Fun Castles are not permitted at West Whale Bay Park. Laser Tag is only permitted at Ferry Point, Admiralty House Park, Scaur Hill Fort Park, and Hog Bay Park. Exclusive use of Port Royal Cove (behind Horseshoe Bay Restaurant) or Jobson's Cove cannot be guaranteed during peak season (April–October).

Park Rangers. Park Rangers and authorised officers may at any time examine your site during the event and will inspect it the following day to confirm the area has been left in compliance with permit conditions. Under the authority of the Bermuda National Parks Act 1986 and Regulations 1988, they may, without a warrant and upon asking, examine any permit or document, inspect anything used in connection with the event, and request the name and address of anyone believed to be involved in a breach of the Act.

Your consideration of other park users helps ensure Bermuda's national parks remain a place of recreation and enjoyment for everyone.

For more information, contact the Department of Parks at (441) 236-5902 or email parksdept@gov.bm.