POPE permits and siting approvals

This guide will help you determine which permits you may need.

Q1. Public entertainment

Is the building or venue used or intended for public entertainment?

Note: Public entertainment means events open to the public.

No: Occupancy Permit / Siting Approval not required.

Yes: Go to Q2

Q2. Size of venue

Is the area greater than 500 square metres?

No: Occupancy Permit not required → Q8

Yes: Go to Q3

Q3. Enclosure

Is the venue enclosed or substantially enclosed?

Note: A controlled or clearly defined space.

No: Go to Q4

Yes: Go to Q5

Q4. Paid entry

Is admission gained by payment?

No: Go to Q8

Yes: Go to Q5

Q5. Community organisation

Is the event run by a community-based organisation?

No: Go to Q7

Yes: Go to Q6

Q6. Attendance

Does attendance exceed 5,000 people?

No: Go to Q8

Yes: Go to Q7

Q7. Prescribed place

Is the venue a prescribed place of public entertainment?

No:
Application for Occupancy Permit

Private Building Surveyors can only issue permits when building work is involved.

Yes:
Apply via Victorian Building Authority

Q8. Temporary structures

Does the proposal include temporary structures?

Tents / marquees over 100m²
Seating stands (20+ people)
Stages over 150m²
Prefabricated buildings over 100m²

No: Siting Approval not required.

Yes:

Occupancy permits required via Victorian Building Authority

Note:

Siting must be approved by Council
Structures must be installed by registered practitioners
Compliance certificates required

Need to know more?

Page last updated: Monday, 30th March 2026

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