Planning an Event in Merri-bek
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Learn how to obtain permits and plan safe, successful events on Merri-bek City Council land.
Details
Ongoing activity
90 Bell St, Coburg VIC 3058, Australia
$
Varies by event type and risk category
Learn how to obtain permits and plan safe, successful events on Merri-bek City Council land.
Ongoing activity
90 Bell St, Coburg VIC 3058, Australia
Varies by event type and risk category
Planning an event in Merri-bek offers a fantastic opportunity to celebrate community culture, art, and performances in beautiful outdoor spaces. Whether you're organizing a small gathering or a large festival, understanding the permit process is essential to ensure your event runs smoothly and safely.
When planning your event, you can expect to navigate a clear permit application process designed to categorize your event by risk level—low, medium, or high—and event type, including inflatables and weddings. This process helps maintain safety and compliance with council regulations while supporting your event's success.
You will need to submit detailed information about your event, including expected attendance, infrastructure plans, and any special requirements such as road closures or power access. The council provides guidance and support through a dedicated Festivals Officer who will assist you from application to event delivery.
The permit application involves several steps:
- Submit an online Event Application Form with comprehensive event details.
- Await assessment and categorization by the Festivals Officer.
- Provide supporting documentation such as risk assessments, site maps, and insurance certificates.
- Receive your event permit with conditions to ensure safety and compliance.
- Deliver your event according to the approved plans and permit conditions.
- After the event, complete any required site inspections to facilitate bond refunds.
Permit fees vary by event risk category and are charged per event day, with bonds required to secure compliance. Additional permits may be necessary depending on your event's nature, such as liquor licenses or temporary road closures.
Merri-bek offers a variety of parks and outdoor spaces perfect for festivals, picnics, and community gatherings. These spaces are managed by the City Council and require permits for events that exceed normal use.
You can explore available open spaces suitable for your event on the council's Outdoor Spaces page. Accessibility and amenities vary by location, so planning your event with these factors in mind will help ensure a positive experience for all attendees.
Event permits are mandatory for gatherings exceeding 100 people, use of inflatable structures, road closures, or when infrastructure like marquees and staging are involved. Some events, such as regular sporting fixtures or small private parties without major infrastructure, may be exempt.
Compliance with all council conditions, including COVID-19 safety plans where applicable, is required. Failure to meet permit conditions can affect bond refunds and future event approvals.
Permit fees are based on event size and complexity:
- Low risk: $224 per event day
- Medium risk: $503 per event day
- High risk: $1,175 per event day
- Inflatable permit: $114.50 per event day
- Wedding permit: $503 per event day
Bonds range from $500 to $2,000 depending on event category and are refundable following satisfactory post-event inspections. Additional fees may apply for supplementary permits such as Temporary Road Occupancy or Places of Public Entertainment permits.
For more detailed guidance, the council provides an Event Permit Guide and direct support through the Festivals Officer to help you plan a safe, memorable event in Merri-bek.