Amusement Device Permit

All mechanical amusement devices at events (such as ferris wheels, roller coasters, dodgem cars and bumper cars) must have a Certificate of Registration issued by Worksafe New Zealand.

Before an amusement device is operated, the owner must apply to Upper Hutt District Council for a permit to operate (Amusement-Device-Application-UHCC.pdf(PDF, 77KB)). A copy of the certificate of registration issued by Worksafe New Zealand must accompany the application, unless we already hold one on file for the device.

Bouncy castles, inflatable slides and non-powered equipment are not considered amusement devices.

Please send your completed application to environmentalhealth@uhcc.govt.nz

General conditions for amusement device applications

The general conditions for amusement device applications are:

  • Applications must be accompanied by a current Certificate of Registration and the application fee.
  • Applications must be received at least five (5) working days in advance of the event.
  • Fees for permit applications are non-refundable.
  • Applications are not transferable to other dates outside those on the original application.
  • Rides should not commence before the permit has been issued.
  • No application fees will be accepted onsite on the day of the event, ie if you have not applied before the event then you do not operate.
Land borne inflatable devices at events

It is important that land borne inflatable devices (eg bouncy castles or inflatable slides) meet the Australian Standard (the accepted safety standard as per Worksafe Land-borne inflatable device operating requirements). Only those providers who can demonstrate to Upper Hutt District Council that their devices meet the Australian Standard are able to operate at events on public open space. If you are planning to have a land borne inflatable device at your event, please contact the Events team who will be able to offer advice and guidance.

Providers who are unable to demonstrate that their devices meet the Australian Standard are not permitted to operate on public open space.

We will check:
  • the ground can support the device without risk of subsiding
  • there is enough clearance to prevent people from being injured when the device is operated
  • passenger loading platforms and other places for accessing the device can be kept clear of debris and obstructions and not get slippery
  • suitable fire extinguishers are provided 
  • electrical safety can be maintained
  • protective fences or barriers are erected if needed
  • appropriate warning signage is visible
  • operators are aged at least 18 years and trained and competent to operate the device safely.
  • the operation complies with our Public Places Bylaw 2005

Find out more

How to get your Certificate of Registration from Worksafe

Fees - Compliance Services Fees

  • Regulation 11(6)(a) (first device for first seven days or part thereof)  $11.50
  • Regulation 11(6)(b) ((each additional device for a further period of seven days or part thereof)  $2.30
  • Regulation 11(6)(c) (for each device for a further period of seven days or part thereof)  $1.15

For more information about amusement equipment and/or ‘rides’, please contact the Environmental Health Officer on (04) 527 2169.