The Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982, Section 89, requires that the use of a “raised structure” must be approved by the relevant local authority. In this context, “raised structure” means a platform, stand, staging or other similar structure, which provides seating or standing accommodation.
Section 89 applications are not required for any type of sports equipment. E.g. a boxing ring. This requirement does not apply where, a Building Warrant has been granted or, scaffolding or similar equipment is used in connection with building works.
Any structure/s under 600mm from the finished stage level to the ground level do not require Section 89 consent. Please note if erecting a stage on graded ground, the point of measurement is from the greatest height of staging.
The Service has to be satisfied that the raised structure:
- has been safely constructed and secured, and;
- has sufficient means of access and egress, including means of escape in an emergency situation.
The Service may also specify any conditions deemed necessary for the use of the raised structure, including the maximum number of persons permitted to use it.
Please apply for your Section 89 raised structure consent as early as possible to ensure the service has enough time to assess and confirm you raised structure design is safe and compliant – it is recommended at least 7 weeks prior to your event taking place.
Applications can be made online here.
2026 Update to type of structure and fees applicable
Application Type
There are now 4 application types for Section 89 applications:
Minor raised structure
Raised structure under 30 m² (e.g. small stage, platform).
Intermediate raised structure and/or provision of tiered seating
Single raised structure over 30 m² but under 100m2 and/or tiered seating (e.g. Circus)
Major or Complex raised structure
Single raised structure over 100m2 OR large/technically challenging configurations requiring enhanced checks and engineering input (e.g. interconnected staging, gantries, tiered seating, or high-capacity setups).
Multi-structure
Multiple raised structures under one application
* The total area measurement (m2) is the entire area the raised structure takes on the ground, including any joined PA rigging/gantries, access stairs, ramps, strapped ballast, etc.
Any doubt in calculation of this can be clarified with the Local Authority.
Application Type |
Fee (£) | Fees (adjusted to include surcharge or discount) | |||
Fee (£) (if submitted late) +50% | Fee (£) (Early submission Discount) -20% | Fee (£) (charity, not for profit/small community events) -30% | Fee (£) (Early submission AND a charity, not for profit/small community event) -50% (max discount rate) | ||
Minor | £200 | £300 | £160 | £140 | £100 |
Intermediate | £350 | £525 | £280 | £245 | £175 |
Major | £500 | £750 | £400 | £350 | £250 |
Multi-structure | No. of structures x fee band (based on bandings outlined above) | Max surcharge penalty £1000 | No. of Structures x fee band -20% | No. of Structures x fee band -30% | No. of Structures x fee band -50% |
Fees
The following table of fees are applicable for Section 89 applications:
*Please get in touch if you require clarity or assistance in calculating the fee payable for your application.
**Notes on surcharges and discounts below.
Surcharge
Late application surcharge
+50% if the application is submitted within 10 working days of the event.
N.B. Although the local authority will always attempt to deliver the service requested, this cannot be guaranteed if you submit a late application.
The surcharge is not a guarantee of delivery of service, and leaving a Section 89 application submission to within 2 weeks of an event is run at the organisers own risk.
Discounts
Early application discount
- 20% if the application is submitted 35 working days prior to the event.
An early submission discount only applies when all mandatory documents are submitted at time of application (i.e. dimensioned, detailed and annotated plans, all structural design documentation and calculations, RAMS, site layout, etc)
Charity/not for profit/small community events
- 30% discount will be applied.
This should be confirmed prior to application being submitted/considered (via example evidence outlined below) and applicability will always be considered at the discretion of the authority.
Governing documents (constitution or articles of association stating non-profit purpose).
Proof of registration as charity or not-for-profit (e.g., OSCR, Companies House for CLG or SCIO).
HMRC or OSCR confirmation of tax-exempt or charitable status (if applicable)
Public benefit statement confirming activities are for small community/cultural benefit and not commercial gain.
N.B. Discounts for charities/not for profit and small community events are still available on late applications, however the late surcharge is added first.
Further Advice
Further advice and information can be obtained by calling 01382 433102 and asking to speak to the wider role team during office hours, or by email to bs.admin@dundeecity.gov.uk