What is Venue Capacity?

Capacity is the maximum number of people allowed in a venue or at an event, set by its licence and safety limits, and adjusted for each show's layout. It shapes everything from ticket sales and staffing to the deal offered to an artist. Getting it right is a safety requirement as well as a commercial one: overcrowding is one of the biggest risks at any event.

How capacity is set

A show's capacity is worked out in stages:

  1. Licensed capacity: the licence or fire risk assessment sets the absolute maximum.
  2. Layout: seated, standing or mixed layouts give different figures.
  3. Production: the stage, mix position and camera positions remove space or seats, known as kills.
  4. Holds and comps: seats for the artist, accessibility and comps are set aside.
  5. Sellable capacity: what is left is put on sale through ticketing.

Capacity is one of the first things organisers check when choosing a venue, which is why it is listed for venues in the Crescat venue directory.

Licensed capacity vs configured capacity

Licensed capacity is the legal maximum for the space. Configured capacity is the number for a particular show's layout, which is often lower. A venue licensed for 1,000 standing might hold 600 seated, or 850 with a large stage. Promoters base their offers and budgets on the configured capacity, not the licensed one.

What affects capacity

  • The number and width of exits
  • Standing or seated layout
  • Stage size and production positions
  • Toilet and facility numbers
  • Staffing and stewarding levels
  • Licence conditions
  • Accessible viewing areas and platforms

Frequently asked questions

What does "sold out" mean?

All sellable tickets for the show's configured capacity have been sold. It does not always mean the licensed maximum has been reached.

Do staff and guests count towards capacity?

Usually, everyone in the public areas counts, including guests and comps. Rules on staff and performers vary, so check the licence. Keep a running count at the door so the venue never goes over its limit, especially when people can leave and come back in.

Who decides a venue's capacity?

The licensing authority and fire safety assessment set the legal maximum. The venue and promoter then set the configured capacity for each show, based on the layout and production.

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