Market Policies

Effective Date: March 29, 2026

About the Market

The Fairview Farmers’ Market Association is a nonprofit, volunteer-driven organization supporting local farmers, artisans, and small businesses through a vibrant Thursday community market from June to October. We are committed to promoting fresh, local foods, supporting small businesses, strengthening community connections, enhancing food security and sustainability, and collaborating with community partners to provide education and outreach.

1. Location, Dates & Hours

The Fairview Farmers’ Market operates every Thursday from the first week of June to the last week of October, including holidays, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at 27 Vimy Ave (Centennial Arena Community Room and outside along the side of the building).

2. Vendor Eligibility & Selection

The Fairview Farmers’ Market is committed to creating a diverse marketplace offering the highest quality, locally produced products. Management reserves the right to accept or refuse any vendor application at their discretion, based on a range of factors.

  • All products must be made, baked, or grown by the vendor
  • Third-party sellers, resellers, and MLMs are not permitted
  • Subletting of stalls is not permitted
  • We prioritize local, small-scale, and handmade businesses

3. Payments & Fees

  • Vendor fees must be paid in full by the stated deadlines
  • A deposit is required to secure your space
  • All fees are non-refundable once commitment to the season is made

4. Attendance Expectations

  • Vendors are expected to attend all market dates for which they are scheduled
  • If you are unable to attend, notify the market as early as possible
  • Repeated absences or no-shows may impact future participation

5. Market Setup

  • Vendors may begin setup as early as 3:00 PM
  • Setup must be completed and vendors must be ready for customers 15 minutes before opening, at 4:00 PM
  • Vendors must remain fully set up and ready to serve customers until market close at 7:00 PM
  • Indoor vendors are provided with a 6′ or 8′ table depending on available space
  • Outside vendors will be provided with a 6′ or 8′ table and/or canopy depending on availability and request.
  • Outside vendors are responsible for the setup and takedown of their tables and canopies.
  • Vendors must bring a tablecloth that reaches the floor at the front
  • Vendors are responsible for their own display, signage, and setup materials
  • Vendors must bring an adequate supply of their products
  • Vendor parking is available on the outer perimeter of the parking lot; all vendors must adhere to parking requirements set by management

6. Market Draw Donations

  • Vendors are required to make a one-time donation per season for use in the weekly market draw
  • Acceptable donations include gift certificates or samples of merchandise or food products
  • Non-food donations should be dropped off at the first market the vendor attends

7. Market Bucks & NS Loyal Vouchers

  • Vendors are required to accept Market Bucks and NS Loyal vouchers
  • Vendors must be set up for e-transfer with auto-deposit enabled
  • Payments are processed within 24 to 48 hours after each market
  • Instructions for submitting vouchers will be provided at the start of the season

8. Permits & Food Safety

  • Vendors are responsible for obtaining and displaying all required licenses, permits, inspections, and certificates for their products (Public Market Permit Application)
  • Food vendors must comply with all requirements set by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and the Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture, including labelling, cooling, and sanitation
  • Vendors are responsible for following all applicable federal, provincial, and municipal regulations, including those related to taxes

9. Vendor Conduct

  • Vendors are expected to maintain a professional and respectful presence at all times
  • The market is a welcoming, inclusive environment and respectful behaviour is required
  • Vendors must follow direction from market organizers regarding setup, safety, and operations
  • Vendors must adhere to the highest standards of quality, service, and business practice

10. Weather & Market Operations

  • The market operates rain or shine
  • Vendors should come prepared for changing weather conditions, particularly those with outdoor stalls
  • In the event of extenuating circumstances requiring a cancellation, vendors will be notified as soon as possible; fees already paid for that market may be held for a future event or refunded at management’s discretion

11. Policy Changes

This policy may be updated from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated effective date.