Using parks for events, businesses and group activities

North Sydney’s parks and open spaces are for everyone to enjoy.

Most everyday use of parks will continue to be free.
Following Council's decision on 29 June 2026, new fees and charges will apply to some organised, commercial or larger group activities.

This page explains what’s changing, when it starts, and what it means for you.

What’s changing

Council is introducing a booking and permit system for some types of organised use of parks.

This applies to activities such as:

• Running a business in a park (e.g. fitness training, dog walking, commercial picnics)
• Holding organised events (e.g. weddings and ceremonies)
• Large group gatherings
• Regular organised use by non‑government schools and some organisations

Why Council is making these changes

North Sydney's parks are highly valued and increasingly in demand.

These changes are designed to:

• Keep everyday use free for the community
• Manage demand in the busiest parks
• Ensure fair access for all users
• Support maintenance and upkeep

Community feedback showed:

• Strong support for keeping casual use free
• Broad support for a user-pays approach for commercial activities

Everyday use is not changing

You can still enjoy parks for:

• Walking, exercising and relaxing
• Meeting friends or family
• Informal picnics and small gatherings

When this starts

• From 1 October 2026
  A new booking system will be available
• From 1 January 2027
  Fees and charges will apply (where relevant)