Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Do I need a permit to place goods on the footpath, including tables, chairs, advertising boards, screens, display of goods, planters, umbrellas and heaters?

A. Yes.  Your required a Footpath Trading Permit if you wish to place any of the above on the footpath outside your premises.

Q. How do I get a permit?
 
A. You are required to fill out a Footpath Trading Application Form. Download and complete a Footpath Trading Application Form.

Q. How long will it take to get my permit?

A. It will take a minimum of 6 weeks for a permit to be issued, unless informed otherwise.

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Q. How will I know if my permit has been approved or declined?

A. Following a site visit and assessment, you will receive a call from the Footpath Trading Office, informing you of our decision.

Q. Can I trade on the footpath once I've sent in all my paper work?

A. No.  You must not trade on the footpath until your permit has been formally approved, and you have received a copy of your permit.

Q. Do I need to publicly display my Footpath Trading Permit?

A. Yes.  The permit sticker on the last page of the permit is required to be placed on the shop front window.  If you have a permit for an A-board, you are also required to display the 2 small stickers supplied on either side of the A-board.

Q. If I decide to close or sell my business after I have paid for my Footpath Trading Permit, can I get a refund?

A. No.  Footpath Trading Permits are non refundable.  However once the relevant documents have been completed, the permit can be transfered to the new proprietors of the business.  Download and complete a Transfer of Ownership form.

Q. Does the Footpath Trading Department offer a pro-rata payment option to businesses that open throughout the year?

A. No.  From 1^st July to 31^st December - No Pro-rata is available.  Full Fee will be charged.
Yes. From 1^st January to 31^st March - 50% of the total amount will be charged.
Yes. From the 1^st April to 30^th June - 25% of the total amount will be charged.

Q. Do all permits expire at the same time?

A. Yes.  All permits expire at the same time. The permit period begins on the 1^st July and ends on the 30th June of every year.  The lodgment date of your application does not determine your expiry date.

Q. Do I need to provide windproof ashtrays for my patrons?

A. Yes, windproof ashtrays must be provided at all times for patrons wishing to smoke within the footpath trading area.

Q. Do I have to remove my furniture from the footpath at the close of business every day?

A. Yes.  All goods including tables, chairs, advertising boards, screens, display of goods, planters, umbrellas and heaters must be removed off the footpath at the close of business every day.  (Please refer to hours of operation on your Footpath Trading Permit).

Q. How often does street cleaning take place?

A. Street cleaning gets done on a daily basis.  Refer to your Footpath Trading Permit or the street cleaning website for specific areas and times.