Council recognises that footways are an integral part of the City environment and commercial uses allowed on the footway have a direct impact on the vitality, amenity and safety of the City.

The quality of the footway environment plays a key role in determining the level of a city's legibility and amenity, and gives opportunity for social interaction and observation. Council also recognises that street trading can contribute to the economic vitality of local business.

Footways are public property and must be respected and treated as such. At all times safety, the right to unimpeded access for the pedestrian and clear lines of sight are the most important considerations.

Commercial Use of Footways Policy

​The Commercial Use of Footways Policy provides a framework that enables the commercial use of public footways whilst addressing the requirements for public access and circulation. This policy ensures a high standard for restaurants, cafes and businesses undertaking commercial street trading.

All commercial use of Council-owned outdoor space requires approval. In Canterbury-Bankstown, this is granted through a Commercial Use of Footways licence. Council will consider licence applications and renewals on an individual case-by-case basis.

Commercial Use of Footways Licence Application - New/Amended​

Commercial Use of Footways Licence Application - Renewal/Change of Licence Holder​　

Outdoor Dining Fees

At the Ordinary Meeting of Council on 22 June 2021, Council resolved to support local small businesses by waiving footway dining fees in the 2021/22 financial year. Please ensure your application as been submitted by using the applications linked above.