Events and Festivals

A public event is defined as a gathering held within the Shire on private or public land, either indoor or outdoor by an event organiser or the Shire, where people assemble at a given time and place for entertainment, recreation, commercial or community purposes.

A food truck event is a type of prearranged reoccurring event held within the Shire on private or public land, by an event organiser, where mobile food vendors and temporary food stalls form the primary activity. A smaller number of entertainment, recreation, commercial or community activities may be part of the Food Truck Event. 

A market is a type of prearranged reoccurring event held within the Shire on private or public land, either indoor or outdoor by an event organiser, supporting a mix of different trading or stallholder activities including a variety of entertainment, recreation, commercial or community activities.

If your event has any of the following aspects, you will need approval from the Shire:

• Food and/or alcohol
• Music or entertainment
• Stalls
• Amusement rides
• Structures being installed

  If you’re unsure, it’s always best to complete the application and we will let you know if no further approvals or permits are required.

Events that don’t need Shire approval are generally things like:

1. Private Gatherings: Small personal events, like family BBQs or birthday parties at home, where there’s no promotion or invitation to the public.
2. Casual Meet-Ups: Informal gatherings in public spaces (like friends meeting at a park) where there’s no setup of stalls, stages, or entertainment.
3. Regular Business Activities: Businesses operating as usual without added attractions or organised events—like a café serving its normal menu.
4. Invite-Only Gatherings: Private events not open to the public, such as company meetings, as long as there are no added things like food stalls, live music, or rides.

When in doubt, it’s always best to submit an application to the Shire. They can let you know if any approval or permits are required

• Ensure the facility you wish to host your event at is available (email shire@harvey.wa.gov.au)
• Make sure you allow sufficient time for the application to be processed - late applications will not be accepted
• Complete the Event Application Form  and email it to shire@harvey.wa.gov.au
• We will review your application and provide you a bespoke list of permits and approvals you may require for your event
• We may set up a meeting with you to discuss and assist with your event requirements
• You may be required to provide the Shire with any outstanding information (such as risk registers and temporary food permits)
• The Shire will review all documentation and provide a response back
• If approved, you hold your event!

To help you in your planning and to understand the timeframes involved in gaining approvals, you will need to assess the risks associated with your event.

By completing the Public Event Risk Matrix (click on the link below) you will find out if your event is a low, medium or high risk.

View the Public Event Risk Matrix.

• For high risk public events or for events over 1,000 people, please allow 12 weeks.
• For medium risk public events or for events between 500 to 1,000 people, please allow  8 weeks.
• For low risk public events or for events less than 500 people, please allow  4 weeks.
• Emergency Management Plan is required for medium and high risk events. The template is available for download at the end of the page.

Please complete the Event Application Form