Quick answer: To throw a party for more than 25 people in a Scarborough park, you need a picnic permit from the City of Toronto. You can book some picnic sites online or call Parks and Recreation Client Services for any site. Bringing a tent into a City park also needs City approval, and a tent over 646 sq ft needs a building permit too. Book the park first, then book your rentals for the confirmed site and date.
Not everyone in Scarborough has a backyard big enough for 60 relatives, and a park is often the best place for a big birthday, a family reunion or an Eid or graduation picnic. The catch is that City parks come with rules, and it is easy to show up on the day and find another group at your spot. Here is how to book a park properly and what to rent for it.
Do You Need a Permit for a Party in a Toronto Park?
Under the City of Toronto parks bylaw:
- 25 people or fewer: no permit needed. But if a group with a permit shows up for the same site, you have to move.
- More than 25 people: you need a picnic permit.
- Very large gatherings (over 200 people) or events with extras like tents, amplified sound or vehicle access may need a special event permit, which takes longer to get.
- Tents: you cannot put up a tent or structure in a park unless it is authorized by permit.
Even with 20 guests, a permit is worth it on a busy summer weekend, because it guarantees your spot.
How to Get a Picnic Permit in Scarborough
- Pick a few parks. Popular choices for group picnics in Scarborough include Thomson Memorial Park, Morningside Park, Milliken Park and Bluffer’s Park. Check which sites can be booked and what they have, like picnic tables, shelters, washrooms and parking.
- Check the season. Picnic and BBQ permits run in the regular season from May to September. For 2026, booking opened in mid-February, so plan to book early for the following summer.
- Book online or by phone. Some picnic sites can be booked through the City online booking system. Every picnic site can be booked by calling Client Services.
- Sort out insurance. When you book online, insurance is charged based on the number of guests. Larger special events need a $2 million liability certificate naming the City.
- Ask about tents. If you want a tent, ask about tent approval when you book, and mention the size. Our tent permit guide explains the 646 sq ft limit.
One group can reserve up to two picnic sites per date, which helps if you have a big family or want separate areas for kids and adults.
What to Rent for a Park Party
Most picnic sites have a few tables, but rarely enough for a big group and never enough chairs. Here is what people usually add:
| Item | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Folding chairs | $2 each | Seats for older guests and anyone eating a full meal |
| 6-foot tables | $10 each | Food, drinks, cake and extra seating |
| 10 x 10 ft tent | $70 | Shade for food or older guests |
| 20 x 20 ft tent | $250 | Shade and rain cover for up to 40 guests, if approved |
| Chafing dishes | $15 each | Keeps catered or home-cooked food hot |
| Popcorn or cotton candy machine | $100 each | Needs power, so add a generator in a park |
| Generator | $50 | Most picnic sites have no outlets |
Example: a 50-person birthday picnic with 30 chairs ($60), 6 tables ($60), a 10 x 10 ft food tent ($70), 3 chafing dishes ($45) and a cotton candy machine with a generator ($150) comes to about $385 in rentals.
Delivery to a Park: What to Know
- Vehicle access is limited. Many parks do not let trucks drive onto the grass. Tell us which parking lot is closest to your site and how far it is, so we can plan the carry.
- Give us the exact spot. Send the site name or number from your permit, plus a pin or photo if you can.
- Match your permit times. Book delivery inside your permit window, and plan pickup before the permit ends.
- Keep the permit with you. Bring a printed or digital copy in case a City staff member asks.
Tips for a Smooth Park Party
- Arrive early to set up and to make sure your site is clear.
- Pick a site near washrooms if you have kids or older guests.
- Bring extra garbage bags and take everything home. Parks fill up fast on summer weekends.
- Have a rain plan. A tent, if approved, or a nearby covered shelter makes all the difference.
For more birthday planning, see our Scarborough birthday party checklist and our page for birthday party rentals in Scarborough. Hosting a work event instead? Use our company picnic checklist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a birthday party in a Scarborough park?
u003cpu003eYes, if more than 25 people are coming. Groups of 25 or fewer do not need one, but they have to give up the site if a group with a permit arrives.u003c/pu003e
How do I book a picnic site in Toronto?
u003cpu003eSome picnic sites can be booked online through the City’s registration and booking system. All picnic sites can be booked by calling Parks and Recreation Client Services. The regular picnic season runs from May to September.u003c/pu003e
Can I put up a tent at a park picnic?
u003cpu003eOnly with City approval. The parks bylaw does not allow tents or structures without a permit, and any tent over 646 sq ft also needs a building permit.u003c/pu003e
Can you deliver party rentals to a park?
u003cpu003eYes. We deliver chairs, tables, tents and more to parks in Scarborough and across Toronto. Tell us the site and the nearest parking lot when you book.u003c/pu003e
Book Rentals for Your Park Party
Once your permit is confirmed, send us the park, site, date and guest count through our quote form, or call or WhatsApp (647) 886-6427. See our table rentals in Scarborough and the areas we deliver to.
Park rules and booking dates can change from year to year, so confirm the details with the City of Toronto when you book. Last updated October 2026.
Get a Free Party Rental Quote
Tell us your event date, location and guest count and we will send you a price. Quotes are free and prices are in Canadian dollars.
- Delivery, setup and pickup across Toronto and the GTA
- Minimum order for delivery is $150
- We reply 9 am to 7 pm, seven days a week
Event in the next few days? Call (647) 886-6427 or message us on WhatsApp.