We’re updating Bayside’s Local Law and Footpath Trading Policy to make our laws clearer, fairer and easier to follow.
Regularly reviewing these rules helps ensure our shared spaces stay safe, accessible and welcoming.
We’ve heard from our community that some rules are not strong enough, such as for the management of construction sites, and parking of caravans, boats and trailers on public roads.
We also want to make it easier for traders to do business in Bayside by simplifying standard required permits.
We’ve drafted a proposed new Community Local Law 2026 and Footpath Trading Policy 2026 in line with what we’ve heard so far. Now we’re seeking feedback to understand if the proposed changes are supported by the community.
Local Law
The proposed changes make the rules:
- clearer and easier to understand
- fairer and more consistent
- easier to follow and enforce
Some changes also respond to community feedback by:
- strengthening rules in key areas (e.g. construction, vehicles, property maintenance)
- improving safety, accessibility and amenity in public spaces
- making it easier for businesses to operate, including footpath trading
Footpath Trading Policy
At the June 2026 meeting, Council adopted a new Schedule of Fees and Charges and supported the reduction and simplifying of footpath trading fees as part of the 2026-27 Budget. These changes respond directly to trader feedback and are designed to make it easier and more affordable for businesses to use outdoor spaces for signage, displays and dining.
The proposed changes to the Policy include:
- streamlined Policy (reducing the existing 32-page document to 13-pages)
- clearly defined purpose, objectives, scope and alignment with the Local Law, including expiry, suspension, cancellation and enforcement
- improved definitions, accessibility, and simplified responsibilities for permit holders
- removal of detailed guidelines and appendix
- summary of application process and decision guidelines, including streamlined information about automatic/provisional permitting, queuing/waiting, activity centre markers/trading zones/siting requirements
- details concerning other approvals and related legislation, and removal of 30 knot windspeed provision and fixed item/technical specifications
- support for seasonal permits
Have your say on the draft Local Law and Footpath Trading Policy between 22 June and 19 July. Your feedback will guide further refinements before these new rules and regulations are considered by Council for adoption in September 2026.
