Event Permits

If you are organising an event in Broome, you may need approval from the Shire of Broome.  Events that require approval include activities such as: 

  • Community events and fundraisers
  • Gatherings run as a commercial activity
  • Ceremonies and processions
  • Sporting and competitor events
  • Shows and fairs 
  • Festivals, concerts, exhibitions and expos 

The Shire’s Event Matrix(PDF, 445KB) will help determine what category your event falls under and whether you need Shire approval for holding your event.   

It is an offence to operate an event without a valid approval and a valid permit, and the Shire can take enforcement action should this occur. 

The Shire has developed the Broome Event Guidelines(PDF, 7MB) to provide an understanding of the Shire’s approval process and your obligations. 

Walmanyjun Cable Beach is currently undergoing significant redevelopment anticipated to continue throughout 2025. Visit the Cable Beach Redevelopment website for up-to-date information. 

 

Do I need permission from the Shire to hold my event

Permission to hold an event is called an Event Permit, and it is generally required if you are holding an event in a public place or it involves activities such as sale of food or alcohol, music or entertainment, stalls, amusement rides or bouncy castles, and structures being installed. 

A public place includes Shire reserves, beaches, parks, roads, road reserves and other areas generally open for use by the public. A public place can also be privately owned land, if the public is allowed to use the land for the event. 

Your event will generally not require an event permit if it: 

  • Is held and run by an educational premises, including primary, secondary, and tertiary educational facilities.
  • Is held and run by a religious centre, including churches and worship centres.
  • Is held in public in a public park or reserve and is an activity considered to be general recreation, such as private family gatherings and parties. 

To understand whether you need an event permit review the Event Impact Matrix(PDF, 445KB).

 

Are there costs involved with obtaining an event permit?

The Shire of Broome charges fees for an event application, venue hire, and other additional fees may be required for your event such as inspection fees, assessment of traffic management plan, and marking of reticulation and electricity. 

The Shire’s Fees and Charges are reviewed and updated every financial year.   

You will be provided with an estimate of costs once your event application has been received.  

Venue hire fees may be discounted for eligible organisations. The request for a discount may be made at the time of the lodgement of the event permit application.

Can I book a park or public space for my event?

Book a public space here 

Bookings for public spaces in Broome can be made on the SpacetoCo website. For Social Gatherings, you can book a space without needing an event permit unless your activity impacts other park users.

For events classified as Low to Major Impact on the Event Matrix(PDF, 445KB), both an Event Permit and a booking through SpacetoCo are required. Note that booking through SpacetoCo does not replace the need for an Event Permit—please review the Event Guidelines(PDF, 7MB) for full requirements.

 

Exclusive use of any area is not allowed for Social Gatherings under the Event Matrix(PDF, 445KB). If exclusive use is desired, a full Event Application for a low to major impact event must be submitted, and fees paid. Even with an application, it's the event organiser's responsibility to designate and secure the area using temporary fencing, security, or barriers. The Shire of Broome does not guarantee exclusive use. Additionally, if your event involves the sale or supply of alcohol, exclusive use will be required.

 

How do I apply for an event permit?

Step 1 - Event Planning

  1. Review the Broome Event Guidelines(PDF, 7MB).
  2. Use the Event Impact Matrix(PDF, 445KB) to determine your event's category and submission timeline.
  3. For inquiries before submitting your application, see online form below. 

Step 2 - Application

  1. Check availability and book your location on SpacetoCo.
  2. Complete the online event application form. Follow the minimum application timeframes based on event impact (e.g., apply at least 30 days prior for low-impact events).

Step 3 - Application Review

  1. The Shire assesses your application.
  2. Additional documentation may be requested.
  3. Once sufficient information is received, the Shire makes an approval decision.
  4. Additional fees are determined, and an invoice is issued.
  5. A pre-event meeting may be scheduled with the event organiser.

Step 4 - Approvals

  1. Pay the invoice.
  2. Schedule health inspections (if required).
  3. Receive the event permit.

Step 5 - Event Delivery

  1. Deliver the event according to the Event Permit.
  2. A post-event assessment will check for damages or non-compliance.
  3. A post-event debrief may be held with the Shire.

 

I would like more information

Submit an Event Enquiry to confirm any requirements for your proposed event before applying. You’ll receive a response within 10 working days outlining any necessary documents or fees.

Include key details about your event, such as location, number of attendees, target audience, purpose, and whether you’ll be selling food, alcohol, or goods.

Click here to view form.

What's on in Broome?

Visit this page to stay updated on the latest events happening around Broome.

Have an event you'd like to share? Find out how to submit your event for inclusion on our events page and let the community know what’s happening.

 

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