Footpath Trading Policy

Public spaces, such as footpaths and roadsides, are used for access to shops and buildings.  Council regulates the use of public spaces to ensure they are safe and clear of hazards.

To balance potential conflict between pedestrian and other footpath uses, a Streets and Roadside Trading Policy has been developed to accommodate pedestrians, people with disabilities, trading, advertising, merchandise displays and kerbside dining.  You can download the Streets and Roadside Trading Policy Summary or pick up a copy at one of our Community Links. 

Temporary signs, furniture and merchandise

If you operate a business in the Yarra Ranges Council and want to place items on the footpath or Council land such as A-Frames, merchandise, seats, umbrellas, tables, chairs, children’s rides and planter boxes you will require a Footpath Trading permit.

There are three different types of Footpath Trading permits

• Temporary sign
• Temporary furniture
• Temporary merchandise

For more information download the Footpath trading permit fact sheet or pick up a copy at one of our Community Links.

 Real estate boards

Under the Yarra Ranges Planning Scheme, a real estate advertising board may be placed within the boundary of the property offered for sale or lease.  For sale boards are not permitted to be placed on any road reserve or Council land without first obtaining a permit.

Council may grant a permit for real estate boards to be placed on road reserves or other council land directly in front of the property to which they relate only where those boards would not be clearly visible to passers by if they were located within the boundaries of the property.

How do I apply for a permit?

You can download the Footpath Trading permit application form and Real estate board application form or pick up a copy at one of our Community Links.

All applications must include a detailed site plan and a copy of the applicant’s current Public Liability Certificate of Currency to a minimum value of $10 million noting Council as principal for its rights and interests.

Completed application forms, together with relevant fees should be lodged in person at one of the Community Links or returned by mail to PO Box 105, Lilydale 3140.

 How much does a permit cost?

View the current schedule of fees on this page

For more information contact us on 1300 368 333 or email