Draft Roadside and Footpath Trading Policy
This consultation is now closed, thank you for having your say and helping improve roadside and footpath trading in Baw Baw!
Consultation Update
At the Wednesday 26 November 2025 Council Meeting, Council adopted the Roadside and Footpath Trading Policy.
This Policy provides a framework for use and management of roadside and footpath areas for trading activities.
It aims to support local businesses by making our streets more vibrant – but also providing safe and unobstructed pedestrian access for pedestrians of all abilities.
If you'd like to read the Council Meeting minutes or watch the recording, you can do so on our website.
We thank you for your engagement and feedback, and we hope you'll continue to be involved with our projects in the future.
What is the Roadside and Footpath Trading Policy?
The Roadside and Footpath Trading Policy provides a framework for the use and management of footpath and roadside areas for trading activities. It aims to support local businesses by making our streets more vibrant, but also providing safe and unobstructed pedestrian access for pedestrians of all abilities.
Why is it under review?
By undertaking a review of the Policy, Council can ensure it is meeting current community expectations and keeping up with emerging trends while also protecting our residents, assets and facilities.
What's happened so far?
During March and April this year, we asked traders and other stakeholders to share their thoughts on the current Policy and emerging issues with us, and from this initial round of consultation, a draft Policy has been developed.
At a meeting on 27 August 2025, Council resolved to release the draft Roadside and Footpath Trading Policy for community consultation from 29 August to 28 September 2025.
What's changed in the new Policy?
Some key changes in the draft Policy include:
- Definitions have been updated.
- The Policy has been separated into easily identifiable parts that deal with different topics.
- A requirement for a minimum footpath width of 2.5 metres for footpath trading to be considered has been introduced.
- Requirements for access zones have been included.
- Requirements around heaters, planter boxes and umbrellas have been included.
- Teardrop flags and banners have been included as an alternative to A-frame signs.
- Requirements around walk-up service windows have been included.
- Requirements around installation of permanent infrastructure have been clarified.
- Information on the permit application process has been expanded.
- Information around compliance and enforcement has been included.
- Requirements for real estate and temporary event signage have been removed - these will be included in a Signage Policy that is being developed.
How can I have my say?
This consultation closed on Sunday 28 September 2025.
