Event application and approval process

This page is for event organisers who are planning and delivering community events in the Tweed.

Follow the 4 steps below to create safe, inclusive and well-run events that meet community expectations and Council requirements.

Here to help

If you’re planning an event in the Tweed, Council is here to support you. This events hub provides lots of information, but every event is different and should be carefully considered against the criteria. 

Please seek professional advice or contact Council if you have any questions – especially if you're considering an event under the exempt and complying development rules.

Event starter guide

To understand what's involved in organising an event, read the Event Starter Guide. 

This guide is for organisers of both small and major events and was developed by the NSW Government with support from other agencies..

What is a 'community' event?

A community event:

• is accessible to the general public
• provides for the physical, cultural, or intellectual well-being of the community
• has a community benefit as the primary reason for the event
• is consistent with the accepted use of the reserve or facility
• may have commercial elements, but they must be incidental to the event.

Community events on public land

All events held on public land (such as Council venues or sports grounds, roads, footpaths and parks) require approval from Council and/or other government agencies.

Community events on private land

Events on private land may be allowed as exempt or complying development under NSW planning rules if they meet the criteria. If your event does not meet the criteria, a development application (DA) may be required.

For information about the rules for exempt and complying development events see Running a temporary community event(PDF, 289KB).

I want to hold a community event on public land, what do I do?

You need to apply online using Council's form, and provide all the required information.

When your application is received, it will be reviewed by a Council officer. You may be asked for more information to support your application.

Applications are assessed based on the impact, scope and location of the event.  

You will be notified of the outcome of your application by email. 

Apply here: Application to hold a community event

Public liability insurance

When applying to hold an event on Council land you must have public liability insurance (Certificate of Currency) that:

• has a minimum cover of $20 million
• is consistent with the name of the applicant
• is relevant to the activity/event and location
• is valid and current for the period of the licence
• includes the following wording in the Interested parties/counterparties section: "Tweed Shire Council and Minister administering the Crown Land Management Act 2016."

Steps to a successful event

Follow our step by step guide to deliver a great event: