Footpath trading permit

You'll need a footpath trading permit if you want to use footpaths for commercial activities. This can include using a footpath to:

  • place tables and chairs
  • displaying goods for sale
  • place A-frame advertising signs.

Footpaths less than 2.5 m wide can't be used for footpath trading.

Our footpath trading policy

Our Street Activities Policy and Guidelines set out management and use of footpaths by the community and businesses.

All retailers operating a business beside Council-controlled footpaths must abide by this policy as well as any conditions specified on the footpath trading permit.

The policy and guidelines aim to:

  • balance local business activities with the need to provide clear, safe access for all pedestrians of all abilities
  • encourage footpath trading that contributes to the vibrancy of commercial areas including shopping centres
  • provide clarity for traders about appropriate use of local footpaths.

Download our Street Activity Guidelines(PDF, 5MB)

Foodpath trading conditions

A-frame signs:

  • must not exceed 0.9 m wide and 1.1 m high
  • must be removed during unsuitable weather conditions (e.g. windy weather)
  • can't be permanently affixed to the footpath or nature strip
  • must be placed 1.5 m from the shop front and 600 mm from the kerb.

Tables and chairs, displays of goods and A-frame advertising signs must not be placed up against the shop front.

For further conditions, please refer to the Street Activities Guidelines attached to this page.

     

Apply for a permit

Step 1.Read the footpath trading guidelines

Download and read the Street Activities Guidelines attached to this page.

Step 2.Complete your application form

Complete the permit application form online or download the application form. If you need a paper copy, collect one from our Council Offices at 25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang, or phone us on 03 9217 2170 and ask us to mail you one.

Complete the application form online

Download the application form(DOCX, 125KB)

Step 3.Prepare a site plan

Consider preparing details of your intended footpath trading in a proposed site plan. This step is optional.  

Step 4.Get public liability insurance

Arrange public liability insurance cover for at least $20 million indemnity and name the City of Whittlesea as an interested party on the policy.

Step 5.Calculate your permit fee

The fee you need to pay depends on how you plan to use the footpath.

  • A-frame sign: $94.30
  • up to two tables: $108.45
  • three or more tables: $180.75
  • goods displayed per m2: $54.20

For good displayed, please specify the exact square metreage on your application form, along with appropriate payment.

Step 6.Pay your fee

We accept cheque, cash, credit card or EFTPOS. If submitting by mail, please send payment by cheque only.

Online

Conveniently apply for you footpath trading permit online, including your:

  • completed application form
  • new public liability policy
  • permit fee.

Apply and pay online

In person

Bring a new copy of your public liability insurance with your footpath trading renewal application and fee payment to our Council offices:

25 Ferres Boulevard
South Morang

By mail

Send a new copy of your public liability insurance, completed application and fee payment (cheque only) to:

City of Whittlesea
Locked Bag 1,
Bundoora MDC, VIC 3083

Step 7.Wait for permit approval

We'll respond to your application within three to five business days and will advise if we need to inspect the site before approving the permit.

Renew your permit

If you hold a footpath trading permit and wish to renew it, you must do so before it expires.Your footpath trading permit's expiry date is based on the duration of your public liability insurance. Submit a new copy of your public liability insurance with your renewal application. 

Find out more about renewing your footpath trading permit 

Extend your footpath trading zone

Under the Victorian Government's Outdoor Eating and Entertainment Package, all businesses who hold a footpath trading permit can now apply to use neighbouring footpath trading zone to display signage, set up tables and chairs or display goods for sale.

Get details about extending your footpath trading zone

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