Outdoor Dining

We want to hear from all hospitality businesses within Bass Coast Shire. Let us know what you have in mind so we can assist with finding a solution that suits you and your business.

Council are working quickly to establish the internal process and resourcing. In the coming days an expression of interest form will be made available on our website. Teams will be available to help you through the process including expediting permit applications and approvals.

A pop up dining or trading space that uses adjacent car parking, parklets are typically intended for people, offering a place to stop and rest while enjoying the services of a trader. Team up with neighbouring businesses to establish a welcoming and safe seating area for your patrons.

Safety and accessibility is paramount. Along with patron safety we must consider pedestrian and vehicle traffic including emergency vehicle access. Our Business Support Team will facilitate conversations with relevant Council Teams to ensure conditions are met to achieve a safe solution for all parties.

In order to trade on the footpath or parklet the business must provide Council with a current copy of their Public Liability Insurance detailing cover of $10m. Public Liability must remain valid for the life of the permit. For extensions to current trading footprints we encourage businesses to seek clarification with their insurer.

No live entertainment or amplification equipment is permitted within the outdoor dining area without the prior written permission of Council. In the interest of creating a peak season vibe we are exploring arts and entertainment options and welcome suggestions and feedback.

It’s important to ensure that your furniture is of a suitable standard and visually pleasing, contributing to the creation of an appealing streetscape. Consultation with neighbouring businesses is encouraged to consider creating a consistent look and feel for the activation. Consider weather and incorporate durable materials in to your design.

At this stage there is no rule book and we encourage businesses that want to pursue this option to be creative and forward considered proposals. Consider patron comfort, heating, cooling and shade are all possibilities. Managing physically distanced groups should be front of mind.

You can find our conditions on our website here https://www.basscoast.vic.gov.au/community-support-services/local-laws/footpath-trading-conditions We encourage you to submit your proposal so we can assess what is possible.

Footpath Trading Permit fees can be found at fees and charges.

The cost of setup is to be borne by the business. Considering current indoor patron caps, you may perhaps repurpose existing indoor furniture for outdoor use. There are a number of local hire companies that can offer services. Council are exploring options for equipment supply.

The Victorian Government has launched a QR Code Service that is free for all Victorian businesses and venues. These records help contact tracers in the event a positive case of coronavirus (COVID-19) is identified.