Under the Local Government Act (1993), anyone wishing to run a business on public land requires approval from Council. This includes fitness trainers, learn to schools, mobile services, sports clinics and hire services.

Each request is assessed on a case-by-case basis and there is no guarantee that your application will be approved. Please note that an approved open space booking cannot extend beyond 12 months and will need to be applied for each year. 

Depending on the request, a more formal procurement process such as an open tender or Expressions of Interest (EOI) may be required. In this case an open space booking will not be approved. 

It is recommended to get your application in at least eight weeks prior to your planned start date. The assessment process can take quite some time as the commercial use must be consistent with the relevant planning documents and legislation.

Your request is also reviewed in terms of the venue suitability, date availability, community safety and other identified risks to the venue, area, and community.

The assessment also involves the development of customised terms and conditions of use and the determination of the appropriate fees and charges.

Applications for running a business cannot be made online. Please complete an application form and send back to the Open Space Bookings team.