We’re reviewing parts of the Local Law and Footpath Trading Policy to make sure they reflect current community needs, protect our shared spaces, and support a safe, welcoming Bayside.

Local Laws

  • Caravans, boats, and trailers

    What we’re considering:

    Reducing how long caravans, boats and trailers can be parked on Council roads without a permit (currently 28 days).

    Why:
    Council received 260 complaints about abandoned vehicles in 2024/25 — the fourth highest complaint type. Storing boats/trailers/caravans on roads also generated the fourth highest number of infringements.

  • Commercial and trade waste

    What we're considering:

    Making the rules for disposing of waste clearer so we can reduce contamination and keep streets safe for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists.

    Why:

    Council received 893 local law complaints about dumped rubbish during the 2024/25 financial year, making it the highest complaint type received by Council.


  • Construction site management

    What we're considering:

    Stronger rules for construction site management, including waste and stormwater, fencing and parking management.

    Why:

    Council’s investigations team received 96 complaints in the 2024/25 financial year, an increase from 77 in 2023/24. With Victorian Government Planning Reform, construction activity impacts are likely to keep increasing in Bayside.

  • Hard rubbish

    What we're considering:

    Allowing people to take items from hard rubbish for reuse or recycling. This would remove the current rule that makes it an offence to collect items from hard waste.

    Why:

    Many hard waste items can be safely reused, repaired or recycled instead of going to landfill.

  • Pets and animals

    What we’re considering:

    Reviewing how many animals can be kept on private properties, focusing on what’s suitable for higher‑density living (e.g. apartments).

    Why:

    To ensure our Local Laws are still fit for purpose with changes in Victorian Government Planning legislation and initiatives.

    Bayside is projected to see a 70% increase in housing by 2051, with an additional 31,000 dwellings proposed - achievable only via increased densities and increased building heights across the municipality.

  • Protecting Council assets

    What we're considering:

    Stronger rules to protect Council assets. This includes damage to Council assets, protecting trees/vegetation and obstructions in public places.

    Why:

    Asset protection generated the most infringements (158) issued during the 2024/25 financial year.

  • Unsightly or dangerous private land

    What we’re considering:

    Strengthening rules to better address unsightly or dangerous land, including neglected or dilapidated buildings.

    Why:
    These issues affect neighbourhood safety and appearance. Council received 192 complaints about unsightly properties in 2024/25 — the fifth highest complaint type.

  • Footpath Trading Policy

  • What we’re considering:

    Changing to a fee structure that charges businesses based on the total footpath space used, rather than charging for each individual item.

    Why:
    We want fees to be simpler, fairer and easier to understand. Footpath trading permits have declined over recent years — from 463 (2021/22) to 347 (2024/25) — and this review aims to improve clarity and support local businesses.

  • What we’re considering:

    Introducing seasonal permit options (eg summer only) to better suit businesses that only trade outdoors at certain times of the year.

    Why:
    Several traders have requested more flexible, seasonal permits that reflect their trading patterns, especially during peak seasons.

  • What we’re considering:

    Allowing businesses to have a permit to store outdoor furniture on the footpath when they are closed, provided it is safely and neatly stored.

    Why:
    Traders have asked for the ability to keep furniture on the footpath rather than moving it daily. Clear rules and a permit would ensure this is done safely while maintaining accessibility for the community.

  • What we’re considering:

    Updating the rules for advertising signs — including placement, size and number — and clarifying requirements for movable signs.

    Why:
    Clearer, more consistent signage rules will help reduce confusion, improve compliance, and keep footpaths safe and accessible for everyone.

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