Acquiring permission for performing a stunt or a daredevil attempt in the United States and Canada involves a multilayered process and an approximate timeline is hard to predict, given the number of variables involved. Such activities require approvals from multiple regulatory authorities to ensure that they comply with safety and environmental regulations.
1. Proposal Development: First, you would need to develop a detailed proposal of the stunt that outlines what you intend to do, how you plan on doing it, what safety measures will be in place, the potential benefits and the potential risks. This needs to include proof that you are skilled and equipped enough to carry out the activity without causing harm to yourself, others or the environment. You'll likely also need to identify any stakeholders affected by your stunt, such as local residents or businesses, and consider how your stunt could affect them.
2. Seeking Permissions from Relevant Local, State or Federal Authorities: The nature of the stunt determines which agency needs to give approval. In both countries, it can range from local municipal governments (if the stunt is going to take place on local or city property), state or provincial governments, or even federal agencies. For example, if your daredevil attempt involves air space (like skydiving or a flying stunt), then you would have to apply for a special permission from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the US or Transport Canada in Canada.
3. Engaging Stakeholders: Part of your responsibility might involve notifying or gaining permission from other stakeholders, including the public if it's in a public area. This may require public consultation processes, open meetings, or providing notifications.
4. Acquiring Necessary Permits: Depending upon the stunt, permits may be required from various government agencies. For example, an environmental permit may be necessary if the stunt may impact wildlife or vegetation in the area.
5. Providing Insurance: Due to the inherent risk involved in stunts or daredevil attempts, governments often require proof of liability insurance to cover potential damages or harm that may occur. You may need to submit this information as part of your application for approval.
6. Safety Checks and Approval: Some stunts may need safety inspections before approval is given. Authorities will likely review the proposed safety measures in detail, potentially asking for revisions if they feel the measures are inadequate.
The timeline of obtaining such permissions greatly varies on the complexity of the stunt, its potential risks, the jurisdictions involved and their regulations. While it can sometimes take a few weeks to a few months for smaller-scale, local stunts, it could take much longer for larger, more dangerous or controversial stunts, perhaps a year or more. Remember, patience and due diligence are crucial parts of the process to ensure your daredevil attempt is safe and legally sound. The process to perform daredevil stunts at Niagara Falls is a long one, but who knows . . . you could go down in history.