The updated guidelines were developed following consultation with local businesses, residents and visitors, to ensure that footpath activity enhances the quality of our streetscapes and neighbourhood activity centres. An outdoor speaker trial also ran along Fitzroy Street, St Kilda, to assess the impact of music on pedestrians, local community members and other businesses in the area.
The guidelines have included several updates that allow businesses to apply for:
- The display of fairy lights in their footpath dining areas
- Background music to be played in outdoor dining areas (at ambient levels and with consideration of residents and other businesses)
- Temporary outdoor cooking stations to be used in outdoor dining area
The guidelines also provide:
- New requirements for glass screen installation to protect against wind
- Clearer processes for planning and applying for footpath trading related permits
- Ongoing protection of footpath access for pedestrians and the broader community.
Included in the guidelines are new standards for the display of goods on the street, to ensure our streets remain visually appealing, with fresh fruit and vegetables, flowers, plants, clothing and more.
In addition, special standards have been developed for the South Melbourne Market precinct, in recognition of its unique activities and destination appeal.
