Permits for public spaces
A permit to occupy is the type of permit businesses need if they want to use City of Hobart public space. This may include footpaths, nature strips, and road reserves.
To carry out any of the activities outlined below in a park, reserve or sportsground please contact us on 03 6238 2711.
A permit to occupy a public space can include activities such as outdoor dining, display of goods or signboards, use of machinery for building works etc. Depending on the activity you would like to carry out there are different permit applications. To make sure the correct application is completed please refer to the 'When to use this form' section at the start of each form.
For bookings of Elizabeth Mall, Salamanca Square, Collins Court, Wellington Court and Mathers Place, please see the public spaces bookings page.
Fees and conditions apply for these permits (fees excluded for Distribution of advertising material)
For enquiries, phone 03 6238 2970 or email coh@hobartcity.com.au.
Permit to occupy - outdoor dining
Existing permit holders
Existing permit holders should apply for an application for amendment to permit to occupy a public space (outdoor dining) by completing and submitting the online form:
Apply online
A printable form is available on our forms page.
New applicants
New applicants should apply for an application for a new permit to occupy a public space (outdoor dining) by completing and submitting the online form:
Apply online
A printable form is available on our forms page.
Permit to occupy - other than outdoor dining
If you would like to carry out any of the activities listed below you will need a permit:
- objects within or over a highway
- fencing
- building any structures
- use of machinery for building works
In limited circumstances, where there is no adverse effect on the public, a permit to occupy may also be issued to residents and other property owners to let them occupy part of a highway reservation.
To apply for a permit you can complete and submit the online form:
Apply online
A printable form is available on our forms page.
Holding a special event
If you are planning on holding a one off event on Council land on any roads, parking spaces or footpaths a permit is needed. This may be an extension of space that is currently permitted under an existing approval to occupy a public space. Such events may include cage night.
For any other special events such as markets/festivals or to carry out construction works where road closures may be required refer, to construction activities and events on public streets.
To apply for a permit you can complete and submit the online form:
Apply online
A printable form is available on our forms page.
Display of signboards
A permit is not required for signboards where they are placed in accordance with Clause 8 of the Public Space by-law. If the signboard does not meet the requirements in the by-law a permit will be required, as there is a greater risk of impacting pedestrian movement.
To apply for a permit you can complete and submit the online form:
Apply online
A printable form is available on our forms page.
Display of goods
To display goods for sale, a permit is needed. This applies to footpaths, nature strips, and road reserves.
To apply for a permit you can complete and submit the online form:
Apply online
A printable form is available on our forms page.
Operate as a roadside vendor
To operate as a roadside vendor (excluding food vans) on a footpath or nature strip a permit is needed.
The permitted area for roadside vendors is Sandy Bay Road between Derwent Water Avenue and Wiamea Avenue. Other locations may be considered on application.
To apply for a permit you can complete and submit the online form:
Apply online
A printable form is available on our forms page.
Distribution of advertising material
If you would like to distribute or display materials such as a pamphlet, picture, sticker or notice you will need to apply for a permit.
To apply for a permit you can complete and submit the online form:
Apply online
A printable form is available on our forms page.