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Mass Gatherings

What is a Mass Gathering?

West Virginia defines a Mass Gathering as any group of 250 or more people gathered together for a meeting, festival, social gathering, or similar purpose. However, the term does NOT apply to any assembly in permanent buildings or structures "designed, equipped and intended for use by large numbers of people."

In other words, large events of 250 or more people being held at an event center designed for such an event is NOT a Mass Gathering. A Mass Gathering would include events such as a large Scout Gathering at a public park or a concert held in a field. Mass gatherings are not necessarily restricted to outdoor locations, but rather they are defined by the sanitary infrastructure available to accommodate large groups of people.

To host a Mass Gathering, a permit is necessary. In addition, the requirements listed below must be met.

Sanitary Facilities:

  • One water closet for each 100 persons for the first 1,000 persons, then two additional water closets per 1,000 persons thereafter.
  • When water under pressure is provided, one lavatory (handwashing facility) for every two water closets shall be provided.
  • Urinals may be substituted for up to 50 percent of the required number of water closets.

Space Requirements:

  • At least 20 square feet of space for every 4 persons for daytime assemblage
  • At least 40 square feet of space per person for overnight assemblage
  • Adequate Parking space for every four persons with the density notto exceed 100 passenger cars or 30 busses per usable acre

For more information or materials to apply for a Mass Gathering permit, please contact the Environmental Section at (304) 845-7840.