Footpath Trading Permit Rules - Perth Bylaws

Events and Special Uses Western Australia 4 Minutes Read · published February 11, 2026 Flag of Western Australia

Introduction

In Perth, Western Australia, footpath trading and outdoor dining are regulated by the City of Perth to balance business activity with public safety and pedestrian access. This guide explains the permitting process, common compliance requirements, enforcement pathways and practical steps for traders seeking to place tables, chairs, displays or advertising on footpaths. It summarises who issues permits, what the city checks, likely obligations for public liability and hours, and how to resolve disputes or appeals.

Always check the current City of Perth application page before placing items on a footpath.

Who regulates footpath trading

The City of Perth is the primary regulator for footpath trading within Perth city boundaries; permits and conditions are set under the City’s local laws and licensing framework. Traders must hold any required permit and comply with conditions set by the City’s Licensing and Compliance teams.[1]

Typical Permit Requirements

  • Proof of business registration and identity documentation.
  • Public liability insurance - minimum coverage often required (check the application).
  • Site plan showing placement, clear pedestrian widths and any proposed furniture.
  • Specified hours of operation and seasonal conditions.
  • Conditions on signage, A-frames and obstruction of access for people with disability.
Site plans usually need to show maintained clear paths for pedestrians and mobility devices.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is undertaken by the City of Perth’s Licensing, Compliance and Rangers teams, who can issue notices, infringement fines or require removal of unauthorised items. Exact penalty amounts and escalation measures are set out in the City’s local laws and fee schedules; where a specific monetary amount is not displayed on the City’s summary pages, it is not specified on the cited page below.[2] For matters requiring formal action, the City may issue directions to remove or alter displays, issue infringement notices, or commence court proceedings under the relevant local law.[1]

  • Fines: amounts not specified on the cited City summary page; see local law text and fee schedule for exact figures.[2]
  • Escalation: may include warnings, infringement notices and prosecution for repeat or continuing offences; specific steps are not detailed on the summary page.[2]
  • Non-monetary sanctions: removal orders, compliance directions and court action under the City’s local laws.[1]
  • Enforcer: City of Perth Licensing and Compliance (Rangers/By-law Officers); use the City’s report/complaint channels to lodge issues or request inspection.[3]
  • Defences/discretion: officers may consider permits, approved variances or reasonable excuse; formal appeals or reviews follow statutory review pathways if specified in the local law.
If you receive an infringement notice, read it carefully for time limits to pay or appeal.

Applications & Forms

The City publishes an application form and guidance for footpath trading and outdoor dining applications; if the City summary does not list a specific form name or fee on the public overview, the form name or fee is not specified on the cited page and applicants should use the City’s licence and permits portal to obtain the current form and fee schedule.[1]

  • Form name/number: not specified on the City summary page; obtain the current application form from the City’s licences and permits portal.[1]
  • Fees: refer to the City’s annual Fees and Charges schedule or the licences portal; specific amounts not specified on the summary page.[2]
  • Submission: online via the City of Perth licences and permits portal or as directed on the application form.[1]

Common Violations

  • Placing furniture that reduces pedestrian clearway below required width.
  • Display of unauthorised signage or A-frames.
  • Operating outside approved hours or without an approved permit.

Action Steps for Traders

  • Check the City of Perth footpath trading application page for the current form and guidance.[1]
  • Prepare a site plan and insurance evidence before applying.
  • Confirm fees on the City’s Fees and Charges schedule and budget for annual renewal.
  • Contact Licensing and Compliance if served with a notice to seek clarification or lodge an appeal where available.[3]

FAQ

Do I need a permit to place tables on a Perth footpath?
Yes, you generally need a footpath trading permit from the City of Perth; check the City’s licences and permits pages for details and application forms.[1]
How much does a footpath trading permit cost?
Fees are listed in the City’s Fees and Charges schedule; if an amount is not shown on the summary page, it is not specified on the cited page and applicants should consult the fees schedule or contact the City.[2]
Who do I contact about an infringement or unsafe obstruction?
Contact the City of Perth’s Licensing and Compliance or the Rangers service via the City report/contact page for inspections and complaints.[3]

How-To

  1. Check the City of Perth footpath trading and outdoor dining information and download the current application form.[1]
  2. Prepare a scaled site plan showing furniture placement and required pedestrian clearways.
  3. Obtain public liability insurance and any other documents requested on the application form.
  4. Submit the application and fee via the City’s licences and permits portal; retain proof of submission.
  5. If an officer issues a notice, follow directions promptly or lodge the specified review or appeal within the time limit stated on the notice.

Key Takeaways

  • Always obtain a City of Perth permit before placing items on a public footpath.
  • Prepare a clear site plan, insurance and confirm fees via the City’s licences portal.
  • Use the City’s Licensing and Compliance contact channels for enforcement, complaints and appeals.

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