Apply to host an event in a Barnet park or open space

Hosting an event in a Barnet park

If you are interested in holding an event in one of Barnet’s parks or greenspaces, our events service is available to help guide you through the process.

What we class as an event

Events are defined as:

a gathering of 50 or more persons or
where infrastructure is brought to site or
where activities are proposed (licensable or other) which may constitute an event. For example, music, catering, or co-ordinated activities

Further information regarding the scope of this process including the parks that are available to hire, can be found in our Events in Parks Policy (ODT, 580 KB)

There is a separate process for Barnet Sports applications.

To apply for an event on council land that is not managed by the Greenspaces and Leisure Service (events on the highways), please contact the relevant council department directly.

The application process

Our summary of Application Stages Flowchart (PDF, 535 KB) explains the stages of the process. Full details can be found in our supporting Events in Parks Policy (ODT, 580 KB)

Make an initial enquiry

We need to check that your proposal is possible before asking you to make a formal application.

We need to check that:

you're applying through the correct process
the land you want to use is managed by Parks and Greenspaces
the land you wish to hire is available on your proposed dates
your proposal can be considered in line with our Events Policy

Please email us with the following information:

a few sentences to introduce yourself/your company and your experience in delivering similar events
a site map showing proposed site layout and location (and/or route map where applicable).
an overview of proposed activities that will be taking place at the event
a summary of any proposed infrastructure to be brought to site (2 marquees, 20 gazebos, 5 toilets, 1 stage)
event dates and times including both the construction and open phases (must include arrival, open, close, offsite dates and opening times)
anticipated attendance: maximum expected per day (DAILY) and maximum expected at any 1 time (PEAK)
event ticket fees (if applicable)

Application deadlines

The completed application form and supporting documentation (including site plan, risk assessment and insurance documentation) must be submitted within these timescales:

Small (up to 499 daily attendance)

You must apply at least 6 weeks before the proposed event date.

Medium (500 to 4999 daily attendance)

You must apply at least 10 weeks before the proposed event date.

Large (5000 to 9999 daily attendance)

You must apply at least 26 weeks before the proposed event date.

Major (10,000 and above daily attendance)

You must apply at least 26 weeks before the proposed event date.

Complex (Check Event Policy)

You must apply at least 26 weeks before the proposed event date.

Fees and charges

Our fees and charges document explains the fees associated with an event application. The fees applicable to your specific event will be confirmed upon acceptance of your application.

Events on Council Owned or Managed Land fees and charges 2025 - 2026 (PDF, 207 MB)

Supporting documents

Events in Parks Policy (ODT, 580 KB)
Terms and Conditions (PDF, 315 KB)
Events guidance notes and checklist (PDF, 111 KB)
Events Risk Assessment pack (PDF, 53 KB)
Site Inspection Form (ODT, 64 KB)