FAQs

Many of Maroondah’s cafes and restaurants currently set up table and chairs on the footpath adjacent to their businesses for customers to sit outside. These areas are managed through a Street Activities Permit, issued by Council’s Local Laws team.

The policy will enable Council to assess and approve existing and future applications by hospitality businesses to set up outdoor dining in Council-owned land such as car spaces and road reserves.

The assessment will include ensuring that each business owner has the appropriate insurance and that any structure built on Council land comply with building requirements.

The policy will also recommend the introduction of fees for businesses that want to occupy Council land.

Outdoor dining created additional floorspace for customers during COVID-19. It adds vibrancy and attracts customers to Maroondah’s local shopping centres.

Council will review the feedback received from business owners and the community before finalising the policy and potentially bring it into effect before the end of 2023.