Outdoor Dining and goods display permits
North Sydney Council is responsible for managing the road reserve, including footpaths, within the local government area. Council supports outdoor dining and goods display where it positively contributes to local centres, street activity, business vitality and the quality of the public domain. Commercial activities must be located and managed so that public access, safety and the primary function of the footpath are maintained.
Council assesses outdoor dining and goods display applications in accordance with the Outdoor Dining and Goods Display on Footpath Policy 2024, the relevant planning controls and the requirements of the North Sydney Development Control Plan 2025.
Do I Need a Permit?
You need a permit before placing outdoor dining furniture, goods for display, or related equipment on a public footpath, plaza or other Council-managed public place.
This includes, but is not limited to:
- tables and chairs
- goods display stands or racks
- umbrellas, heaters or canopies
- barriers, screens or planter boxes
- approved signage
- promotional materials
Council Determination of a Permit
Council will assess each application on its merits.
In determining whether to approve a permit, Council may consider whether the proposed outdoor dining or goods display area is suitable for the location, maintains safe pedestrian access, protects public safety and is compatible with the surrounding streetscape and local amenity.
Council may approve, refuse, vary or impose conditions on a permit. In some circumstances, Council may grant a trial period to help determine whether a location is suitable for outdoor dining or goods display.
Council may also vary the design, operation or conditions of an approved permit at any time, or revoke a permit if the site is considered unsuitable or the permit conditions are not complied with.