City of Virginia Beach Launches Outdoor Event Permitting Online Platform

Applying for outdoor event permits in Virginia Beach becomes easier beginning April 15. The City of Virginia Beach’s new Eproval online platform makes it easier for applicants to apply for outdoor event permits and more efficient for reviewers and approvers to process the applications.

The Eproval tool will include permits for outdoor events on public and private property, including festivals and special events, parades, runs and walks, and social events requiring an outdoor event permit by City Code.

With this launch, Virginia Beach continues to solidify its position as a first-class destination for festivals and special events.

Eproval is now available for use by residents or event organizers planning an event in Virginia Beach. To learn more about the platform and begin the permit application process, visit VirginiaBeach.gov/OutdoorEventPermits.

Key features of the Eproval platform include:

• Streamlined review process: Eproval automates the permit review and approval process for applicants, reviewers and approvers, ensuring timely and consistent responses to permit applications.
• Real-time updates: Organizers receive real-time updates on the status of their permit application, increasing efficiencies with the resolution of missing or incomplete information.
• Event planning playbook: The completed permit application will serve as a planning template for event organizers to host a successful and safe event.
• Year-over-year efficiencies: Planners of annual events are able to duplicate past applications, eliminating the need to re-enter information that carries over each year.

“We are excited to introduce the Eproval platform as part of our ongoing efforts to not only simplify the permitting process but also to ensure a successful event season,” said Nancy Helman, Convention and Visitors Bureau director. “A successful event season would also not be possible without the dedication and expertise of the on-the-ground team, which executes the event details submitted during the permitting process, brings events to life and ensures an unforgettable experience for all.”

The Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau Resort Management Special Event and Film Office is implementing the two-phase Eproval platform, with the first phase allowing applicants to submit a request for outdoor use. If the request is approved, the applicant can proceed with the second phase, completing the outdoor event permit application. Workflows within the platform coordinate reviews from several State and City departments, including the Resort Management Special Event and Film Office, Parks & Recreation, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Fire, Police, Sheriff, Public Works, Commissioner of the Revenue and the Health Department to ensure compliance with all State and City regulations.

The Convention and Visitors Bureau Resort Management Special Event and Film Office will soon be implementing a similar process for beach wedding permit and film permit requests.