Greenville residents could apply to use town property for special events, if the Select Board approves a proposed policy outlining how shows, competitions and events can use town space.

The draft of the policy, which is currently available on the town’s website, must undergo two reviews by the Select Board before being adopted. The first reading of the policy has already occurred and the second is scheduled for May 26. The town is currently seeking public input on the policy, in person or by email.

The policy would require that any event, indoor or outdoor, that is “reasonably expected to cause a public gathering that is not part of the normal course of business at the location” to apply for a permit.

The permit has a $50 fee for gatherings expected to be 250 people or less, and $100 for 251 people or above. The organizers may also be expected to pay other fees related to safety personnel or inspection fees.

The policy does not apply to family gatherings on private property, or for gatherings of under 50 people.

Town Administrator Tara Sousa said until now, the town has operated without any official guidelines for community events, at the discretion of the Select Board. There have been occasional requests to use property in town for events such as weddings, and this policy puts down on the record issues which once had to be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Anyone requesting to hold a special event must provide a site plan showing the site layout, emergency service locations and access, sanitary facility and food service locations, provide a traffic control and parking plan, any other permits or licenses required, proof of insurance and promotional materials.

Residents must submit requests at least 60 days prior to the event.

Once an application is received, the Town Administrator and Select Board, in conjunction with the fire and police department and the town’s health and code enforcement departments will review the application and request additional information as necessary.

For very large events, such as those expected to exceed 200 people, or events lasting multiple days, the application will be posted on the town’s website for a week to allow public comment prior to the Select Board review.

Ashley Saari can be reached at 924-7172 ext. 244 or asaari@ledgertranscript.com. She’s on Twitter @AshleySaariMLT.