Free Space Initiative

Looking to book a community space for a free event, program or meeting?

Ethnocultural groups, community members and neighbourhood groups can book spaces in several of our facilities for free. Our goal is to ensure all community members feel a sense of belonging. Having access to these spaces can foster strong, connected neighbourhoods.

Who can apply

Anyone looking to book a community space for a free event, program or meeting that aims to strengthen community connections in Kingston is welcome to apply.

Each applicant can book up to once a month.

The event, program or meeting must align with our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Hate groups will not be approved for this program. Political parties or events will also not be supported by this program.  

All applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Be based in Kingston or use space to directly benefit Kingston community
  • Be in good financial standing with the City of Kingston
  • Event must be open to the community
  • Event must be free of cost to attendees
  • Event must not generate revenue (no sales or fundraising)
  • Meet insurance guidelines and requirements
  • Align with the City’s commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) 

  • An emerging or existing ethnocultural group
  • Informal or formal community groups
  • Advocacy groups
  • Neighbourhood associations
  • Special interest clubs

This list is for reference purposes only. We determine eligibility on the specific content and requirements of each program and event.

Guidelines and requirements

The event, program or meeting must be free to attendees and not generate revenue (e.g., sales or fundraising). To be eligible for the Free Space Initiative, applicants must be in good financial standing with the City of Kingston.

Additionally, you must submit an insurance certificate at the time of your booking request or within five business days of the initial request. We use this certificate to create the contract so we cannot proceed without it.

The insurance certificate must include the following information:  

  • Minimum of $5 million in third-party liability coverage.
  • List "The Corporation of the City of Kingston" as 'Additionally Insured.'
  • List the City's address as 216 Ontario St. Kingston, ON K7L 2Z3.
  • A description of your event/use of space, including event date(s).

You will need to use a third-party insurance provider and provide your own insurance certificate. Make sure your insurance certificate includes all the specifications listed.

If you are an established organization, professional, or business with your own insurance, you will need to adjust it to meet the specifications.

Facilities

There are several spaces that can be booked through this program. Learn more about the rooms available at our facilities:

Matthew Cahill Gymnasium

  • Max of 250 people dependant on set-up

Multi-purpose Room

  • Max of 50 people

Sunnyside Hall

  • Max of 100 people
  • Upper level

Cloverdale Hall

  • Max of 100 people
  • Upper level

Multi-Purpose Room

  • Max of 25 people depending on set up

Large Hall

  • Max of 56 people depending on set up

Meeting Rooms (PODs)

  • Max of 15 people per POD
  • Two PODs seat 30 people, all three PODs seat 45 people depending on set up

Full gym or half gym

Kitchen

  • Max of 8 people

These facilities and spaces are the only eligible spaces available as part of the Free Space Initiative. If you would like to book a space at another City of Kingston location, apply for a fee waiver.

How to apply

Create a MyKingston account to easily apply for the Free Space Initiative online.

Apply now

How do we process applications?

We process booking requests on a first-come, first-served basis. For us to start processing your application, you need to submit all information and documentation related to it. We will respond to your application within 5 business days.

Contact Us

City of Kingston
City Hall
216 Ontario Street
Kingston, ON K7L 2Z3
Canada
contactus@cityofkingston.ca
Phone: 613-546-0000

The City of Kingston acknowledges that we are on the traditional homeland of the Anishinabek, Haudenosaunee, and the Huron-Wendat, and thanks these nations for their care and stewardship over this shared land.

Today, the City is committed to working with Indigenous peoples and all residents to pursue a united path of reconciliation.

Learn more about the City's reconciliation initiatives.