Commercial Use of Footpaths

The Commercial Use of Footpaths Policy outlines the approval process and requirements for small scale street vending and footway restaurants (alfresco dining) on public paths in the Ballina Shire.

With this policy Council aims to:

• Create vibrant and stimulating commercial centres where the public can shop and dine in an outdoor environment and enjoy the favourable local climate.
• Encourage established central business areas as focal shopping, business and social places.
• Allow retailers to display goods and merchandise on the footpath.
• Ensure equitable access for all including people with disabilities.
• Provide clear guidelines with respect to Council's expectations for street vending and footway restaurants.

How to apply to Council for a Commercial Use of Footpath Approval:

To apply for a Commercial Use of Footpath Approval, please complete the following:

• Familiarise yourself with the Commercial Use of Footpath Policy (pdf)
• Download the Commercial Use of Footpaths Application form (pdf)
• Complete all sections of the application form.
• Obtain a copy of your Certificate of Currency of insurance to submit to Council with your application form. This is required to show public liability insurance for a minimum of $20 million and list Ballina Shire Council as an interested party.
• Develop a site plan of the proposed footpath approval area you are applying for and submit this to Council with your application form. The site plan is required to show the details outlined in section 7 (site plan) on the application form including:
  • North point of scale
  • location of the shopfront and kerb
  • width of footpath between the shopfront and kerb
  • width of shopfront and measurements for proposed approval area (width and depth)
  • any existing and/or proposed physical features (eg power poles, rubbish bins, public seating etc)
  • placement of barriers, landscaping, lighting, temporary structures and furniture. 

How to Submit Documents and Pay the Fee:

Once your application form is complete and you have all of the required documents for your application, submit these together to Council by one of the following methods:

• email to council@ballina.nsw.gov.au
• in person at Ballina Shire Council at 40 Cherry Street Ballina, (8.15am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday)
• post to PO Box 450 Ballina NSW 2478

Make payment of the application fee to Council over the phone on 1300 864 444 or in person at 40 Cherry Street Ballina.

The application form is required to be submitted to Council together with the insurance documentation, site plan and payment of the application fee for your application process to commence.

Enquiries

Commercial Services, Ph 1300 864 444 or email council@ballina.nsw.gov.au

Resources

• Commercial Use of Footpaths Application form (pdf)
• Commercial Use of Footpath Policy (pdf)