Guide to Running a Community Event

Introduction

This guide has been designed to help Cockburn community members run a successful event. It is a resource guide to help you through the planning and approval process. It has not been designed to cater for larger, commercial public events. Enquiries relating to these types of events should be directed to the City on 08 9411 3444.

This guide and associated applications, are relevant to events that are of a temporary nature but also applicable to events that occur regularly such as weekend markets. Regardless of the number of events or frequency, there is a significant amount of planning needed to ensure it runs smoothly.

A public event is a gathering of people brought together for a common purpose by a prearrangement and includes but is not limited to, sporting events, fairs, festivals, craft shows, open days, celebrations, cultural performances, concerts, exhibitions, street parties and car boot sales. These events may occur on public or private property.

The area where the event is being held (indoor or out), will be deemed a ‘public building’ during your event under the Health Act 1911 and the Health (Public Buildings) Regulations 1992. It is important that the organisers ensure that relevant guidelines are followed and approvals are obtained. The City categorises events based on risk, Low (Category A), Medium (Category B) and High (Category C).

A private event is a gathering such as an invite-only occasion where guests have a connection with the host, or all of those attending are involved with the same organisation. For example, birthday parties, work get-togethers or wedding ceremonies. None of the above occasions are considered a public event as they are typically invite-only. 

The City does require notification from a resident when a private event is being held on public premises. When these types of activities occur, the organiser should advise the City’s bookings staff so the use of the reserve or facility can be recorded or booked. A private event may require additional approvals if the activities include bouncy castles, alcohol consumption, loud music and the selling of food. Enquiries should be made to publiceventenquiry@cockburn.wa.gov.au