Parks Special Permit – Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
Apply for a permit to host an event at the Arboretum and Botanical Gardens in Bermuda.
Parks
Overview
The Arboretum and Botanical Gardens are sensitive natural spaces that require additional consideration for any organised event. All proposed activities are assessed individually based on the nature, scale, and location of the activity.
Applications can be submitted online or in person at the Department of Parks office, ground floor, Global House, 43 Church Street, Hamilton. A separate application form applies for this venue. Fees must be paid at the time of booking. Any additional fees incurred will be invoiced.
Who can use this service
Anyone wishing to organise an event within the Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. Due to the sensitivity of the space, all applications are subject to additional review before a permit is issued.
How to apply
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. A dedicated Botanical Gardens and Arboretum Special Permit form is also available to download.
Timing
Submit your application at least 14 days before the event. This lead time allows the Department of Parks to assess the suitability of the proposed activity and ensure the space is properly protected.
Fees and payment
Fees are calculated based on the nature and scale of the event and are charged per day. All fees must be paid at the time of booking. Additional fees incurred will be invoiced.
Terms and conditions
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, the Bermuda National Parks Amendment Act 2009 and 2017, and the Bermuda National Parks Regulations 1988.
Permit scope. Permits are issued on a first come, first served basis. 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. The permit must be in the possession of the permit holder at all times and produced for inspection if requested by an authorised employee of the Department of Parks.
Staffing. Events with over 50 people in attendance must have at least one Department of Parks employee on duty. Their responsibilities include management, parking, and enforcement. The Department of Parks reserves the right to deploy the required staff. Portable toilets may be rented, subject to availability. A minimum of one Department of Parks Sanitation Employee will be on duty for the duration of the event.
Noise and music. Radios must be played at a reasonable volume so as not to disturb other visitors or the tranquility of the site. No generators or live bands are permitted (fun castles are an exception).
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 Bermuda 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.
Prohibited activities. The following are not permitted at the Botanical Gardens or the Arboretum: barbecuing, campfires and bonfires, and balloons. Laser Tag is only permitted at the Arboretum.
Fun Castles. Fun Castles are permitted at the Arboretum. At Botanical Gardens, Fun Castles are only permitted in the Main Ring, Collecting Ring, Stables, Celebration, and South Lawns areas.
Park Rangers. Park Rangers and authorised officers may examine your site at any time 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.
Refunds. All refunds will be directly deposited into your bank account in accordance with the Government of Bermuda and the Accountant General's Department policy. Ensure your banking information is correct when provided. Refunds will no longer be given out in check form.