Event Site Survey and Venue Assessment Checklist

Thorough site surveys prevent costly surprises on event day. This assessment evaluates a venue's suitability for your event's technical, safety, and operational requirements before signing a contract or finalizing event plans.

  • Industry: Events & Entertainment
  • Frequency: Per Event (Pre-Contract Site Visit)
  • Estimated Time: 60-90 minutes
  • Role: Event Director / Production Manager
  • Total Items: 27

Capacity and Egress

Assess venue capacity and egress for planned event.

  • Venue posted occupancy capacity meets event attendance requirements?
  • Number and width of exits adequate for planned occupancy?
  • Venue accessible to guests with disabilities per ADA requirements?
  • Multiple entry/exit points available to distribute crowd flow?

Power and Utilities

Assess power and utility availability.

  • Sufficient electrical power available for planned production requirements?
  • Three-phase power available for large audio/lighting productions?
  • Adequate water service for food and beverage operations?
  • Sufficient restroom facilities or space for portable units?
  • Reliable internet/WiFi or cellular service for ticketing and operations?

Loading and Vehicle Access

Assess load-in and vehicle access.

  • Loading dock or vehicle access for production equipment delivery?
  • 53-foot trailer access to loading areas if needed?
  • Floor surface and doorway dimensions permit forklift operation?
  • Adequate parking for expected attendees (1 space per 4 attendees as guideline)?
  • Emergency vehicle access routes available around full perimeter?

Noise and Environmental Restrictions

Identify noise and environmental restrictions.

  • Local noise ordinance reviewed and amplified sound level limits identified?
  • Event curfew time confirmed with venue and local authorities?
  • Neighboring businesses or residences assessed for sound impact?
  • Outdoor sound propagation direction assessed relative to neighbors?

Structural Suitability

Assess structural suitability for planned production.

  • Ceiling rigging capacity adequate for planned audio, lighting, and video loads?
  • Floor load rating adequate for production equipment and crowd density?
  • Ceiling height adequate for production requirements and rigging?
  • Column-free space or columns acceptable for planned layout?

Operational Considerations

Assess operational suitability of the venue.

  • Kitchen or catering space adequate for food service plans?
  • Adequate storage space for production equipment and inventory?
  • Green room or backstage area for performers and staff?
  • Command post or security office space available?
  • Venue allows outside vendors or has flexible catering and service policies?

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Why Use This Event Site Survey and Venue Assessment Checklist?

This event site survey and venue assessment checklist helps events & entertainment teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for event director / production manager professionals, this checklist covers 27 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: per event (pre-contract site visit).

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Event Site Survey and Venue Assessment Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 27 inspection items across 6 sections: Capacity and Egress, Power and Utilities, Loading and Vehicle Access, Noise and Environmental Restrictions, Structural Suitability, Operational Considerations. It is designed for events & entertainment operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed per event (pre-contract site visit). Each completion takes approximately 60-90 minutes.

Who should use this Event Site Survey and Venue Assessment Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Event Director / Production Manager professionals in the events & entertainment industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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