Free trade area

If you own a food business or shop in the Town and would like to display goods or have alfresco dining in the free trade area, you will need to obtain a free trade area permit. 

Previously an installation fee starting from $100 was required for businesses to apply for and set up a free trade area, but as part of the Restart Vic Park COVID-19 Response Strategy, fees for a free trade area were abolished in 2020. Applications for a free trade area permit are now free. 

The free trade area is considered as the area in front of businesses, and is the remaining portion of footpath area that directly adjoins businesses after a two metre pedestrian access or thoroughfare has been provided clear of obstructions. Previously this area was only suitable to be used for alfresco dining purposes, but now traders are also able to use it to display their goods. In certain locations it may be feasible to locate the free trade area further away from the shopfront, however an assessment by staff will be required to ensure safety for patrons and other members of the public. 

Permit requirements

Before you start your application, there are a few requirements you need to be aware of, including: 

  • You will need public liability insurance with a minimum of $10 million coverage that specifically includes using the footpath for this type of activity (you need to upload your Certificate of Currency as part of your application). 
  • The location of your free trade zone should only be in front of your business, either along the building edge or kerbside zone if space permits. 
  • A minimum two metres of continuous clear pathway for pedestrians is required – see diagram. 
  • If your business is located on a street corner or adjacent to a bus stop you must first contact the Town for guidance and further assessment. 
  • All items you place on the footpath for your outdoor eating area or goods display area (e.g. tables, chairs, pot plants etc.) must be removed from the footpath at close of business each day. 
  • Fixtures provided by the business do not obstruct the visibility or clear sight lines of any person at an intersection of thoroughfares. 
  • Your free trade area does not impede pedestrian access. 

 If you meet the above requirements then you can continue with the online permit application below. If you have any concerns or would like clarification on whether your business is eligible for a free trade permit please contact the Town on 9311 8111 for more information.  

Free trade area permit application form

If you own a food business or shop in the Town and would like to display goods or have alfresco dining in the free trade area, you will need to submit the below free trade area permit application.

Introduction

Navigate through the different form sections using the navigation on the left, or use the next/previous buttons located at the bottom of each step.

Business details

Business suburb*







Propriety/company details

Details of tenancy

Do you have the relevant planning, building, health approvals to operate your business activity from the premise the permit applies to?*
Can you maintain a minimum two metre thoroughfare for pedestrians, clear from any obstructions? This includes other existing street furniture such as street signs or bins on the verge.*
Is your business located on a street corner at an intersection?*
Do you have current public liability insurance with a minimum of $10 million coverage that specifically covers your usual business activities including the provision of an outdoor eating area/display of goods/display of signage on footpaths?*

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Agreement

Terms and conditions between Town and business operator

  • I agree to indemnify the Town in respect of any injury of any person or any damage to any property which may occur in connection with my use of the public place as an outdoor eating area or for the display of goods.
  • I confirm that I am the proprietor of the business listed in this application.
  • I understand that it is my responsibility to ensure that all business operations are permitted and are being carried out in accordance with any relevant approvals or licences at all times (e.g. planning, building and environmental health approvals and certificates).
  • I confirm that all information provided to the Town is true and correct.
  • I agree to be responsible for ensuring that all activities proposed within the free trade area will be maintained in a safe condition in accordance with the provisions of the local law and relevant Council policy.
  • I agree to be responsible for ensuring that all items associated with the above-mentioned business, including a-frame signs, will be located within the allocated free trade area.
  • I agree to be responsible for ensuring that a two-metre wide thoroughfare will be maintained clear of obstructions and directly adjoining the thoroughfare of neighbouring businesses, as required in the free trade policy.
  • I agree to be responsible for ensuring that a public liability insurance policy, to the value of or greater than $10,000,000 will be maintained throughout the whole period for which the free trade area will be used.
  • I agree to be responsible for ensuring that any structures within the free trade area are removed each day at the close of business to allow for the area to be swept or any other specified work to be carried out.
  • I agree to be responsible for all structures and objects located within the free trade area and understand that the Town bears no responsibility and will not be held liable for any damage to, theft or vandalism of any structures, objects, products etc. displayed within the free trade area.
Agreement*

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