Holding outdoor events in parks and public spaces
Project Status: When you need to do this
You need to apply to get approval if you’re planning to hold an outdoor event in one of our parks or public spaces.
- Events are defined as a gathering of people for a specific purpose at a predetermined time and location, arranged by an event organiser, that requires infrastructure and equipment to be brought into the space. They can be free to attend or have paid entry.
- Examples include festivals, cultural ceremonies and celebrations, live outdoor entertainment, industry related promotions and exhibitions, or temporary markets.
You’re not required to apply or book for small private gatherings without infrastructure. This includes birthday parties, picnics and neighbourhood get-togethers for residents and community groups. Small private gatherings such as these are not defined as events.
Wedding ceremonies and marriage proposals are a special type of outdoor event. You can apply to hold a wedding ceremony or marriage proposal in our parks and public spaces.
Ceremonies and proposals that won’t use any infrastructure or equipment don’t need to apply for approval.
Outdoor events
Outdoor events require applications and approvals before they can occur in public open spaces.
Events must be safe, engaging and beneficial for the community. They must also align with our event guidelines and be professionally managed.
You can apply to hold an outdoor event at most of our parks and public spaces, but certain activities or event sizes may only be permitted in certain spaces. Before you apply, we can provide advice on the suitability of your event, desired location and availability based on the type of event.
Events may be free of charge or ticketed, but must be accessible to the public to participate and engage in.
Event application and approval process
Before you submit an application, we encourage you to contact us to discuss your event proposal. We can advise on what is permitted and suitable locations that are available for the activity.
What you need to do
Application lead times
Application type | Lead time required |
---|---|
Up to 6 weeks prior for minor events Up to 26 weeks prior for major events |
|
Development application (planning consent) |
Minimum 14 weeks before event |
Minimum 12 weeks before event |
|
Minimum 4 weeks before event |
|
Event management plan |
Minimum 4 weeks prior for minor events Minimum 16 weeks prior for major events |
Minimum 4 weeks before event |
|
Payment of fees and charges |
As per invoice requirements – generally payable before the event |
Event activity approval |
Issued when required details and documents are completed |
Event guidelines, policies and resources
Our event guidelines outline the regulations and procedures for staging events in public spaces in the City of Sydney local area.
All events must follow our guidelines as well as other applicable legislation, policies and procedures.
Guides
Event guidelinesHow to apply to stage events in parks, open spaces or streets in our local area.Published 8 October 2024Guides
Sustainable event guidelinesHelping event organisers create more sustainable events.Published 1 July 2020Guides
Reducing waste from events and services: guidelines for single-use itemsHelping staff and event managers avoid single-use items.Published 9 May 2022Guides
Inclusive and accessible event guidelinesProvides event organisers with minimum requirements and a best practice framework to enhance access and inclusion across a diverse range of events.Published 5 September 2023
Some public event spaces in the city, such as Martin Place and Pitt Street Mall, have specific event guidelines which should be read alongside the main event guidelines before you apply.
Event application
Apply to conduct an event in a park, open space, footway or street.
Land ownership
Our area includes some precincts that require applications and permits from other authorities.