The NCC is one of the largest landowners in Canada’s Capital Region.
NCC lands include urban parks, parkways, recreational paths, Gatineau Park, the Greenbelt and more. To use NCC land, a permit is often needed. There are two types of permits: event permits and land access permits.
An event permit allows you to hold a one-time event on NCC land. Examples of events include
An event permit is not needed for picnics without tents and structures. You can, however, reserve a picnic area at Vincent Massey Park.
The cost of a permit varies depending on the following:
The NCC uses event permits
The NCC has two beautiful sites available for wedding ceremonies:
Early May to Mid-October (weather permitting)
Overlooking the Ottawa River and the picturesque shoreline of Gatineau, the pavilion is an exquisite, open-air gazebo. The Rockcliffe Pavilion is available for wedding ceremonies only — not receptions. Reservations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Overlooking the Ottawa River and the picturesque Gatineau shoreline, the pavilion is an exquisite, open-air gazebo. The Rockcliffe Pavilion is available for wedding ceremonies only — not receptions. Reservations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cost
$430 for three hours ($110 per additional hour), plus HST
Capacity
100 people seated or 150 standing
Services and Equipment
Requirements
The use of confetti, flower petals, rice, alcohol and signage is prohibited. Please leave the site as you found it.
Wedding Photography
Rockcliffe Park is a popular site for photographs, and is open and free to everyone. Reserving the pavilion does not give you special rights over other visitors who may wish to take photographs in the park.
Mid-May to Mid-October
With spectacular grounds and gardens, the Mackenzie King Estate and Tearoom offer a perfect natural backdrop for your special day. The Mackenzie King Estate grounds are available for small wedding ceremonies and the on-site Tearoom can be booked for receptions.
Venue
Wedding ceremonies can be held at three predetermined sites around the Mackenzie King Estate. A reservation is required, and your contract must be signed and all fees paid at least 30 days prior to your event.
Cost
$430 + GST and QST
Capacity
The Mackenzie King Estate is best suited for small wedding ceremonies. The three predetermined sites have varying capacities, but generally accommodate approximately 40 standing guests.
Services and Equipment
Requirements
The use of confetti, flower petals, rice, alcohol and signage is prohibited. Please leave the site as you found it.
Wedding Photography
The Mackenzie King Estate is a popular location for wedding photos. If you are coming to the Estate simply for photos, the only cost is the Gatineau Park parking fee.
We encourage photography throughout the grounds. Please note that the ruins and stone walls are historic structures to be conserved. For this reason and for your own safety, climbing on the ruins and other structures is strictly prohibited.
The NCC is responsible for the integrity and sustainability of its landholdings. In particular, we must look after the environment, ensure public safety, and deal with liability concerns. By controlling access to NCC properties, permits help us fulfill our responsibilities in terms of the land and the public.
You need a permit whenever you are doing something that requires the use of, or access to, NCC land. It could be anything from scientific research to a construction project. For example:
To get an NCC land access permit, complete and submit the Land Access Permit Request Form.
Review times vary depending on the type of access. The review process begins upon receipt of the completed application form, and may take between five and ten business days. To avoid delays, apply as soon as you know the details of your access requirements.
If your request receives preliminary approval, you will then receive a list of requirements that you need to meet before a permit is granted.
You may have to pay a minimum fee of $300, depending on the exact use and location of your work or activity.Depending on the nature of the activity and the type of organization, you may be required to have proof of insurance or a certified performance bond.
Research in Gatineau Park or the Greenbelt helps in planning the short- and long-term protection of species, habitats and ecosystems. Many permits are issued annually to researchers from universities, museums, government departments and non-governmental organizations. The NCC provides logistical support to some of these projects, and sometimes funds research projects that enhance Gatineau Park or Greenbelt management.