Event and temporary structure permits

Marquee tents with a lovely blue sky

You need an occupancy permit to hold an event at a place of public entertainment or build a temporary structure.

Permits for events and temporary structures come under the Building Act 1993. We administer occupancy permits and enforce permit breaches.

There's a slightly different permit process for places of public entertainment and temporary structures. The main application form is the same, but occupancy permits for temporary structures also need siting approval.

Events in places of public entertainment

You need an occupancy permit to hold an event in a place of public entertainment. This is a building or place used, or intended to be used, for public entertainment or a public meeting.

We define it as one of the following:

  • a public assembly building of more than 500 square metres
  • a place of more than 500 square metres which is enclosed or substantially enclosed, or which needs an admission fee or other consideration.

These definitions could apply to theatres, nightclubs, halls, sports grounds or large temporary structures.

Please note: you need an occupancy permit regardless of whether building work has occurred. If there has been building work, you may apply to a private building surveyor, who may issue a combined permit.

My event is on Council land

If you want to conduct a public entertainment event on Council land, you must get approval from the land manager to hold the event.

You may also require an event permit. See our planning an event pages for more information or contact the Festivals and Events Team on 03 8470 8080.

Note that the event permit will be in addition to any occupancy / siting permit required.

How to apply

You can apply online through our eServices portal for an occupancy permit for places of public entertainment.

You also need to supply a site context plan showing existing buildings and other features, such as fire hydrants and hose reels.

Temporary structures

You need an occupancy permit and siting approval for temporary structures.

The Building Regulations 2018 define a temporary structure as a:

  • seating stand for more than 20 people
  • tent, marquee or booth with a floor area of more than 100 square metres
  • stage or platform with a floor area of more than 150 square metres
  • prefabricated building with a floor area of more than 100 square metres.

Building temporary structures

You must use a qualified and registered building practitioner to build your temporary structure. Your permit may include requirements for things like fire extinguishers and emergency lighting. Your builder can issue a certificate stating that you comply with these requirements.

How to apply

You can apply online through our eServices portal for an occupancy permit for a temporary structure. In most cases the Victorian Building Authority issues these permits.

After we issue your occupancy permit, the person responsible for building the structure must get siting approval. You can apply online through our eServices portal for siting approval.

Please ensure your siting application includes:

  • site plans
  • full details of the temporary structure(s)
  • a copy of the occupancy permit.

After you apply, we'll inspect the area within 48 hours and make a decision shortly after. In most cases our municipal building surveyor grants this approval, under a delegated authority.

Back to top