New Events Policy & FAQs
The new District Events Policy brings a number of changes to how we administer applications for events and some new obligations for event organisers. Theses changes include:
- Introduction of a tier system for event applications
- Less time required to apply for small events
- Event administration charges for some events
- Introduction of 2 new event pricing categories
- Charges for council services, i.e. parking bays / toilets
- Protection of DDC land between the months of September – April
- Changes to terms & conditions
- Inclusion of the Prevent Duty
Download a copy of the new policy.
Frequently asked questions
When was the new Events Policy brought in?
- The new Events Policy was adopted by Cabinet in May 2024. This policy was created following consultation with key partners.
Is DDC responsible for road closures?
- For smaller road closures within and across the district, Dover District Council (DDC) does have the authority to issue an order under the Town and Police Clauses Act (TPC), which we can issue in liaison with Kent Police and Kent County Council (KCC). The TPC, as required, is part of the vital Events Safety Advisory Group (ESAG) public safety and event consideration and approval process.
How much notice is required for a smaller road closure?
- Previously, 12 weeks’ notice was required by DDC for a TPC road closure. Under our new Events Policy, this notice can be reduced to 6 weeks for small events involving under 500 people. For any events over 500 people, 12 weeks’ notice is still required.
What about larger road closures?
- For larger road closures within and across the District, KCC, as the highways authority, has full jurisdiction and needs to issue a Temporary Traffic Regulation Order (TTRO), which requires 12 weeks’ notice. KCC charge £910 for this. Under the TTRO, event organisers will not then be additionally charged for any related on-street parking along that TTRO road. The TTRO, as required, is part of the vital ESAG, public safety and event consideration and approval process. KCC has instructed DDC that due to conditions in the area, any events in Market Street in Sandwich would need a TTRO.
Is day to day help available with events in the district?
- A designated Community Development Officer will be in place from next month to support event organisers with the ESAG process, and each area of the district has its own Community Development Officer. The designated Community Development Officer will also ensure that, if possible and required, promotional support and advice continues to be available to event organisers upon their request.
Are additional steps being taken to help event organisers understand requirements?
- We are setting up a meeting with event organisers in the autumn to help clarify requirements, and to continue to offer ongoing support to keep the district a great place to live, work and visit.