Outdoor Trading

City of Newcastle encourages the establishment of outdoor trading areas throughout the Newcastle region.

There are guidelines you need to follow to get approval to establish an outdoor trading area. An outdoor trading area will only be permitted in association with an approved food business.

Outdoor trading regulations are contained within the Outdoor Trading Policy (PDF). The Outdoor Trading Policy contains all the requirements necessary in relation to outdoor furniture, toilet facilities, the consumption of alcohol, shade structures, cleanliness and maintenance.

Making an application

Before making an application it is recommended you contact our Customer Enquiry Centre to ensure you have the correct plans, details and insurance certificate. Applications may be lodged at the Customer Enquiry Centre.

Download: Outdoor Trading Application Form (PDF)

Download: Outdoor Alfresco Dining Application - Temporary (PDF) - these provisions will not apply after 31 December 2023 and land owners consent is still required.

Download: AM0521 - Liquor license temporary change of boundaries - footpaths and roads (PDF)

Download: AM0522 - Liquor license temporary change of boundaries - outdoor land excluding footpaths and roads (PDF)

Pets at outdoor trading areas

Dogs are now permitted in kerbside outdoor trading areas - Download the flyer on dogs at outdoor trading

Your dog can join you if they:

  • Are on a lead
  • Stay on the ground
  • Are not fed
  • Have the restaurant owner’s permission.

Permanent structures

You need separate approval from City of Newcastle if you are going to erect permanent structures and/or awnings in a public space.

Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) requirements

If your outdoor trading area is adjacent to traffic control signals or on a 'classification' state road you may require separate approval from the RMS.

Site requirements

An outdoor trading area is only appropriate where:

  • The public space is wide enough to accommodate the outdoor trading area while still maintaining a clear pathway of travel for all pedestrians including those who use mobility aids
  • The ground surface of the outdoor trading area is suitably constructed and sufficiently level to accommodate outdoor dining furniture and enable the area to be used safely and without inconvenience to pedestrians or vehicles
  • There is no unreasonable hazard to pedestrians, diners or vehicular traffic.

Smoking in outdoor trading areas

Smoking in or adjacent to an outdoor trading area is prohibited. As of 6 July 2015, commercial outdoor dining areas are smoke-free. City of Newcastle does not have any control over these laws and cannot police and or enforce fines. All breaches should be directed to Health NSW who have an online reporting form and for enquiries contact 1800 357 412.

The Smoke-free Environment Act 2000 also bans smoking in the following outdoor public places:

  • Within 10 metres of children’s play equipment in outdoor public places
  • Public swimming pools
  • Spectator areas at sports grounds or other recreational areas used for organised sporting events
  • Public transport stops and platforms , including ferry wharves and taxi ranks
  • Within four metres of a pedestrian access point to a public building.

Find out more from NSW Health and No smoking near public buildings fact sheet