Food Vendor Application
Markham Village Music Festival

Join us and be part of a diverse selection of local and international cuisines that reflect Markham’s multicultural identity.

Licensed food vendors and food trucks are welcome at the Markham Village Music Festival (MVMF). Before applying, please ensure you have read and understand your responsibilities as a vendor.

General Requirements

• The selling, sampling, or distribution of alcoholic beverages is not permitted at MVMF.

• Cooking smokers are NOT permitted.

• Harassment or abuse of MVMF staff and volunteers will result in immediate removal from the festival without notice.

Vendor Responsibilities

• As of July 2018, the Ontario Food Premises Regulation 493/17 requires all food service premises to have a certified food handler onsite at all times.

• Food vendors and food trucks are solely responsible for ensuring their own:

  • Access to water (not provided by MVMF).

  • Access to electrical power, if required (not provided by MVMF).

  • Proper waste management, including compost, recycling, and garbage. Use of City of Markham waste receptacles is not permitted.

  • Proper grease disposal. All vendors must dispose of grease off site. Use of City of Markham waste receptacles is not permitted.

  • Handwashing stations and all required sanitation measures.

  • All products containing or prepared with nuts must carry notice advising such.

  • Full compliance with YRPH Special Event requirement.

Sustainability & Zero Waste Policy

• The City of Markham has a Zero Waste Policy, and MVMF expects strong sustainability practices from all vendors.

• The following items are NOT permitted:

  • Styrofoam cups, plates, containers, or packaging.

  • Single-serve condiment packages.

• The following items are strongly discouraged:

  • Disposable water bottles

  • Plastic cup lids

  • Plastic straws

  • Single-use packaging

• Vendors are encouraged to use compostable or recyclable cutlery and serviceware wherever possible.

Propane, Open Flame & Equipment

• The use of propane, gas BBQs, and open-flame cooking is subject to MVMF review and approval. Vendors whose operations may be affected by this policy should contact Food@markhamfestival.com.

• Vendors must comply with TSSA regulations where propane is used.

Generator Use

• Only “whisper-quiet” generators are permitted (CSA standard: maximum 85 dBA at 1 metre).

• Generators must be positioned to avoid hazards, excessive noise, or exhaust issues.

• MVMF reserves the right to deny generator use if deemed a noise nuisance.

• Generator operation after 11:00 PM is not permitted (City of Markham Bylaw 2017-74).

• MVMF reserves the right to shut down generators without notice that are left unattended and operational past 11:00PM.

Booths & Setup

• Single booth: 11 ft x 10 ft

• Double booth: 22 ft x 10 ft

• Vendors must supply, install, and remove all tables, chairs, tents, and display materials.

• Booth setups may remain overnight on Friday; security will patrol the area, however MVMF assumes no responsibility for loss or damage.

• Booth locations are assigned by MVMF based on operational needs and consideration of nearby vendors.

• MVMF volunteers cannot render any assistance due to liability reasons.

Food Trucks & Trailers

• Food truck and trailer vendors must submit:

  • Photos of the vehicle

  • Overall length (including tongue), width, and height

  • Photos may be included in your application (maximum 4 MB) or linked via your website.

Application Process

If you believe your business meets the above requirements:

• Complete and submit the online application

• An automatic confirmation of receipt will be sent

• Applications will be reviewed. If accepted, a response issued within 10 days

• Accepted vendors will receive:

  • Confirmation of Acceptance

  • Confirmation of processing of provided credit card

  • Schedule details

  • Terms & Conditions and Regulations

  • YRPH documentation. This must be completed and returned to YRPH, not MVMF. All food vendors must receive approval from the York Region Public Health (YRPH) Department and are required to complete and submit a Food Vendor Application Special Events Form directly to YRPH.