What is an event?
An event is any organised activity where an open area, facility, venue, road or temporary structure is to be used by more people than are usually found in that location.
Public land
If your event fits this definition and you are planning to stage the event, then you will need to apply for an Event Application Permit from our Event Services Unit.
If you are unsure who the land owner is, please contact our Event Services Unit on 03 5272 5272.
If you are planning on staging an event on private land, filming in Geelong, or holding a rally or public protest, then the following will apply.
Events on private land
While the landowner may have given approval for the event to be staged on their land, as the event organiser, you may still be required to seek approval and apply for permits from the City and other authorities.
You should contact our Event Services Unit to discuss your proposal and receive advice.
Weddings in Geelong
Are you considering hosting your wedding ceremony in the Greater Geelong region? There are a number of popular locations in the region that are available for weddings.
You may need to apply for a permit to hold your wedding
ceremony in the Greater Geelong region. Please contact our Event Services Unit to discuss your wedding arrangements to determine whether a permit is required.
Filming in the Greater Geelong region
Any filming or commercial photography in the Greater Geelong region will require a Filming Permit.
The approval process has been designed to be quick, easy and to support local film and television production.
Rallies and public protests
Rallies and public protests do not require permission from us, however, we encourage you to make contact with our Event Services unit to ensure that the proposed location to the rally or protest site is available and Victoria Police to find out if their presence are required.
As the organiser of a rally or protest, you should also ensure that adequate insurance cover has been obtained to cover the participants.
The City and Victoria Police will also advise you about what pre-rally/protests communications you are required to undertake.
Why do I need to apply for an Events Permit to stage an event?
As the event organiser it is your responsibility to ensure that all required permits are obtained and any relevant legislation is complied with. This is to ensure that your event is run safely with minimal impact on the local community.
We have an Event Planning Guide which is designed to help you plan a safe and successful event as well as navigate you through the necessary paperwork.
Please contact us if you have any unanswered questions.