The system, designed to generate income to pay for the upkeep of green spaces, will allow the council to prevent double-booking and ensure those in charge of activities are qualified and insured.
Anyone exercising alone, walking their own dog or taking part in groups such as Parkrun, which are free to join, will not be charged.
All parks run by the local authority will come under the new scheme, though Clifton and Durdham Downs may have a different pricing structure.
Licensing fees would start at £450 per year for a single park and £900 for those requiring a licence to cover multiple parks.
Businesses operating without a valid licence could face enforcement action, including fines.