BERLIN (Reuters) – Tesla (NASDAQ:), well-versed in German bureaucracy as it tries to build a huge factory near Berlin, is seeking a waiver from COVID-19 rules on mass gatherings to host up to 9,000 people at a “Giga-Fest” to showcase its plans.

Although the electric vehicle manufacturer began construction in Grunheide, Germany in December 2019, it is currently awaiting approval. In August, the company announced that an Oct. 9 event would be held to allow locals to see the factory being built.

Elon Musk, the company’s boss and outspoken spokesperson, announced earlier in October that he was planning to attend.

Reuters received confirmation from local authorities that the company had sought permission for 9,000 persons to be present on site. This was in addition to existing pandemic rules, which only allow for 5,000.

According to a spokesperson representing the local authorities, “The available documents suggest that the application would be approved.” This confirms an earlier B.Z. report.

Tesla could not be reached immediately for comment.

Tesla must prove that the event will not cause damage to the soil or pollute the groundwater. This is a subject which has stalled construction of the site for several months.

According to a spokesperson for local authorities, it is expected that the company will also meet the requirement.

Tesla’s site is located in a designated water area. Environmental groups expressed concerns that the factory might contaminate or overuse local groundwater sources.

Musk stated that the factory would use less water than similar industrial projects. He also said that Tesla plans to include water recycling facilities in order not to strip the local population of their water.

Register on the website to sign up for the event. The day will include a factory tour, and the chance to drive a Model Y (the car that will be made in-house if approval is granted).