The Council of the Isles of Scilly has a legislative requirement in respect to certifying and licencing public events. If you wish to use a Council Open Space for an event or the storage of any equipment/materials as part of an event, please contact environment@scilly.gov.uk at least 14 working days prior to the start date.
How do I apply to hire an open space?
- If you plan to hire a Council managed open space, please complete the Open Space Application Form
- Further information on Council run open spaces is available here
- Return your form to the Customer Hub at Porthcressa Library or Carn Gwaval Wellbeing Centre, or email it to environment@scilly.gov.uk
- We aim to confirm your application or ask for further information within five working days.
- You will receive your invoice for use of the space after your event
What do I need to include with my Application?
For an application to be approved, the following must be submitted to environment@scilly.gov.uk.
| Requirement | Description |
| Open Space Application Form | Complete the form and provide all relevent details about the proposed event. |
| Risk Assesment |
An assesment identifying potential hazards and the control measures that will be implemented to manage risk |
| Public Liability Insurance | Evidence of Public Liability Insurance with a minimum cover of £5 million |
| Location Plan |
A detailed site plan showing the event layout, including the location of stalls, structures, equipment, and any other relevant features. |
The Isles of Scilly Safety Advisory Group (SAG) has created an Events Tool Kit, providing a one stop shop for event organisers to access advice and guidance on the safe management of events.
Events Tool Kit
- Event Notification Form (large events only)
- Risk Assessment Guidance
- Risk Assessment Template – Example
- Open Space Application Form
Please note: an Event Notification Form is only required if the event will involve more than 300 people. Completed forms should be sent to environment@scilly.gov.uk at least 12 weeks prior to your event.
If you require any of the above in a different format, please email environment@scilly.gov.uk.
Fees and Charges 2026-2027
Below are the Fees and Charges for Hiring an open space. Both Holgates Green and Parade Park have access to electricity - an electrician will be required to connect and disconnect for the event. Be advised that Parade Park does not have any connections to water.
Please note that if the hire is for a local charity, or community group, no charge will apply. All prices include VAT
| Open Space | Half Day | Full Day |
| Holgates Green | £105.00 | £207.90 |
| Parade Park | £78.00 | £151.20 |
| Garrison Field | £75.60 | £154.20 |
FAQs
How do I apply to close a road?
- If you plan to close a road as part of your event, please complete a Road Closure Form
- Further information on road closures is available here
- You must allow at least 12 weeks as a Temporary Traffic Regulation Order/Notice will be required.
- Please return your completed form to Environment Services either in hard copy to the Customer Hub at Porthcressa Library or Carn Gwaval Wellbeing Centre, or by email to highways@scilly.gov.uk. Please retain a copy for your records.
- Please note the Council of the Isles of Scilly is not responsible for private roads. A highway closure form needs only to be filled when it affects a publicly maintained road. If you have any questions regarding road closures happening on the island please contact us via email at highways@scilly.gov.uk or by phone 01720 424450.
Do I need to apply for a licence?
- Some events may require a Temporary Events Licence issued by the Council of the Isles of Scilly
- Licensable activities include:
- Public performances such as the staging a play or an orchestral recital
- Public broadcasts such as an open air film screening
- Indoor sporting events such as a boxing or wrestling match
- Live or recorded music events
- The sale or supply of alcohol
- The provision of late night refreshment between 23:00 and 05:00
3. Further information on different licences and how to apply can be found here.
What supporting documents might I need?
- Open Space Application
- Road Closure Application
- Temporary Event Notice Application
- Proof of Public Liability Insurance
- Event Risk Assessments
- Welfare and Safeguarding Plan
- Sustainable Event Management Plan
- Waste Management Plan
- Emergency Plan
Please note the release and use of balloons, sky lanterns and non-biodegradable streamers is strictly prohibited on Council land as per the Council’s policy passed in September 2018, see the attached policy for more information.
If you require this in an alternative format, please contact environment@scilly.gov.uk.
