Clarity around when a permit is required for both private and public events remains the main reason event industry personnel attend the Permitting workshops hosted by SCEIA, in partnership with the Sunshine Coast Council.

The most recent workshop was attended by a mix of new and experienced event organisers as well as those looking to start their ow local events.

Good discussion around specific event examples helped explain the application of the local laws and the need for a temporary event permit for:

Organised events: a wedding, ceremony or event in a park, on a beach or other council land;

Large gatherings: generally more than 50 people; and

Installation of equipment and structures: large marquees, commercial catering, jumping castles/inflatables, or generators/sound systems.

Typically small, low-impact, casual gatherings that use standard park amenities do not require formal paperwork. However, if in doubt, the Council’s Land Permits team is there to help. They can also provide advice on public spaces that may suit your event.

With the popularity of hosting weddings and small events on unique and regional properties was also discussed and what triggers the approval process. When does a temporary event held on private property become an event business requiring development approval.

Other takeouts from this edition of the workshop included:

• Having a permit for an organised event, such as a wedding, on Council land does not automatically provide exclusive use. The group discussed strategies for dealing with this including the role of signage.

• The need to be aware of the impact of your event on the community and on the environment. As an example, events on our beaches may be denied during turtle nesting season.

Bottom line, the Permits team will provide the clarity you need around the permitting process and support you in making an application.

For more information head to: https://www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/pay-and-apply/events-and-entertainment/applications-for-events