Organizing an event means taking care of numerous aspects — from logistics to sound, from safety to the audience — and among these, there’s an element often underestimated but essential: TULPS procedures for events.
In the field of entertainment, festivals, and live shows, knowing and correctly managing these procedures helps avoid penalties, ensures compliance with regulations, and protects the safety of both the audience and the staff.
In the context of Emergenze Sonore, a company specialized in audio-video-light setups and technical services for performances, it’s important to understand that TULPS procedures are not just a bureaucratic formality. They are an integrated element of the event’s design and production process, where technology, logistics, and regulations intersect.
In this article, we’ll explain what these procedures are, when they’re required, the steps to follow, and how Emergenze Sonore can support organizers throughout the entire process.
What Are TULPS Procedures for Events
The term TULPS (an acronym for Testo Unico delle Leggi di Pubblica Sicurezza — Consolidated Act of Public Security Laws, Royal Decree of June 18, 1931, no. 773) refers to a body of laws regulating a wide range of activities related to public order and safety in Italy.
When we talk about TULPS procedures for events, we refer specifically to the administrative requirements needed for events, performances, and gatherings — whether held indoors or outdoors — which, depending on capacity, organizational level, and the nature of the entertainment, fall under the sections of the TULPS that govern shows, venues, and public entertainment authorizations.
For a company like Emergenze Sonore, which operates in the events and technical setup sector, this means that right from the event design stage, it’s necessary to assess whether a permit, license, notification to the Municipality or Prefecture, or declaration is required — depending on the type of activity and the expected number of attendees.
When TULPS Procedures Are Required
Not all performances require the same level of formalities.
The obligation to submit TULPS procedures depends on several factors, including the number of spectators, the nature of the event (e.g., live music, parties, public gatherings), the duration, the methods of public access, the use of temporary structures or stages, and the presence of complex technical equipment.
For instance:
- Articles 68 and 69 of the TULPS prohibit organizing shows, entertainment, or performances in public or publicly accessible spaces without a license from the public safety authority.
- Article 80 of the TULPS states that the public safety authority cannot grant a license to open a theatre or entertainment venue without first verifying the solidity and safety of the structure, including emergency exits.
- Guidelines for temporary events highlight that even for short-term events, documentation on safety, emergency planning, and participant numbers must be submitted in advance and assessed by the competent authority (Police Headquarters or Prefecture) when it qualifies as a public performance.
In practical terms, if you’re organizing a concert, an outdoor DJ set, or any event involving a stage, lighting, sound, and a public audience, TULPS procedures become an essential part of the organizational process. Ignoring them may lead to delays, fines, or even event suspension.
Main Steps in Managing TULPS Procedures
Properly addressing TULPS procedures means following a well-structured process, which generally includes:
1. Preliminary Assessment
Analyze the type of event, expected capacity, audience profile (free or ticketed), presence of structures, event duration, food or beverage service, and location.
This step determines whether the event falls under TULPS regulations or can be managed as a simpler, ordinary event.
2. Application or Notification Submission
Based on the evaluation, it may be necessary to submit:
- a license or authorization request to the Public Safety Authority / Police Headquarters (for more complex events), or
- a Certified Notice of Commencement of Activity (SCIA) or a notification to the Municipality or Prefecture for minor events.
A useful reference for organizers is the Ministry of the Interior’s handbook dedicated to public entertainment events.
3. Preparation of the Safety and Emergency Plan
This includes:
- floor plans showing emergency exits,
- assignment of safety/security personnel,
- risk assessment,
- fire prevention plan (if needed),
- verification of audio-light systems,
- definition of audience capacity and flow routes.
Government guidelines require such documentation even for temporary events.
4. Technical Verification and Opinions from Competent Authorities
In some cases, the Commission for the Supervision of Public Entertainment Venues (CVLPS) must issue a technical opinion; the Fire Brigade, Local Police, and Prefecture may also carry out inspections.
It’s essential to have everything approved before the event begins.
5. Event Execution and Compliance Control
During the event, the organizer must keep all approved documentation on-site, ensure the presence of assigned safety personnel, verify installations, and demonstrate compliance with all regulations.
After the event, authorities may request an inspection report or final verification.
Why TULPS Procedures Matter in the Audio Sector
Providing audio-video-light equipment and setups means operating within a technical and operational ecosystem where systems, acoustic safety, and temporary structures all fall under the event’s overall responsibility.
Thus, TULPS procedures are not just formal authorizations — they ensure the event’s operability, legal compliance, and safety.
For example, an outdoor stage with amplification, suspended lighting, and an audience must comply with standards on evacuation routes, emergency lighting, fire safety, and noise regulations. If these aspects aren’t properly communicated to the competent authority under TULPS, the event may be suspended or shut down.
Practically speaking, Emergenze Sonore, with the support of Consulere Roma, can assist organizers in the documentation phase of TULPS procedures, supporting the appointed technician and ensuring setups meet safety standards.
Practical Tips for Managing TULPS Procedures Smoothly
- Start early: the sooner you assess whether your event falls under TULPS, the better you can manage timing and costs.
- Prepare clear documentation: floor plans, technical reports, safety personnel lists, and compliance certificates speed up the process.
- Coordinate technicians (audio, lighting, safety) with authorities: a well-designed setup supports authorization requests.
- Keep track of communications: submit your notice or application, confirm receipt, and meet all deadlines.
- Check after the event: if capacity, setups, or installations change, update the documentation.
- Rely on experts: a professional technical-organizational service like Emergenze Sonore can help reduce risks, costs, and unexpected issues.
Emergenze Sonore®: Concrete Support for Your Events
TULPS procedures are an essential element for anyone organizing shows, concerts, events, or audiovisual installations. They’re not an obstacle, but a guarantee — ensuring the event is compliant, safe, technically sound, and audience-protected.
Thanks to Emergenze Sonore’s experience in the audio-video-light sector, and in collaboration with Consulere Roma, organizers can rely on a partner who understands both the technical and regulatory aspects, including full management of TULPS procedures for events.
If you’re planning an event and want to avoid surprises, contact us for a personalized consultation.consulenza personalizzata.
