Fixed Infrastructure Permits

The Hobsons Bay Fixed Infrastructure Guidelines are intended to support eligible hospitality businesses to install fixed infrastructure in Outdoor Areas. 

This permit covers the following types of fixed infrastructure:

• Fixed Screens

• Fixed Lighting

• Umbrella Sockets

The Guidelines detail the eligibility requirements, proposed application process, potential associated costs, and permit holder commitments associated with installing fixed infrastructure. The Guidelines should be read in conjunction with Council’s Community Local Law and sits alongside Hobsons Bay Footpath Trading Program.

As part of the Guidelines, a valid permit is required for any business wanting to install fixed infrastructure. To learn more about the fixed infrastructure permit process please read the following documents

What is fixed infrastructure?

Note: review the Hobsons Bay Fixed Infrastructure Guidelines(PDF, 425KB) for a full list of conditions and requirements

Fixed Screens

Considerations:

  • Should not adversely affect the openness of streetscape
  • Glass screens are preferred
  • Unlikely to support plans that create a cluster of continuous glass screens
  • Encourages innovative and quality design
  • Screens in heritage precincts will be subject to additional considerations
  • Design and construction of glass screens should conform to specifications (e.g., 1,200-1,500 mm in height) 

Lock In Devices

Considerations:

  • Must be made of stainless steel
  • Must be installed in a concrete slab
  • Must be installed flush to the level of the footpath, and no parts should project above footpath level when not in use
  • Sockets must be installed in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications

Fixed Lighting

Considerations:

  • Existing power supply is sufficient
  • Electrical installation is to be undertaken by a qualified electrician
  • Lighting installation must be approved by local power provider
  • The connection between the lighting solution and power outlet is not permitted to be accessible by patrons or other non-authorised personnel.

Can any business in Hobsons Bay apply for fixed infrastructure?

  • This program is intended for hospitality businesses
  • Council may consider a non-hospitality businesses under exceptional circumstances

Council Fees 2023-24

Fee Type

Glass Screens

Lighting

Umbrella Sockets

Fixed infrastructure permit application fee

$250 (one off)

Fixed infrastructure annual renewal fee

$275 (annual)

$218 (annual)

$50 per socket (annual)

Make good bond* Refundable at termination of the permit

$1,000

$500

$500

* Refundable upon approval of the works being completed by a structural engineer

**A bond will be retained for ‘make good’ requirements.

*** This fee is an estimate only based on the existing fee for screens under the footpath trading permit process. 

What documents do I need to gather before I submit an application?

The following documents are required when submitting a fixed infrastructure application. For more information, please read the Fixed Infrastructure Application Form(PDF, 367KB)

  • A site plan showing the outdoor area layout with the location of the proposed fixed infrastructure to be installed to ensure no overlap with neighbouring businesses or pedestrians
  • The installation contractor’s insurance certificate of currency
  • The applicant’s public liability insurance certificate of currency
  • Photos and manufacturer’s specifications of the design of the fixed infrastructure
  • Other documents in support of your application (e.g., letters of support from adjacent businesses or residents)

Who would be responsible for designing and installing my fixed infrastructure?

  • Businesses are required to cover the cost to design, construct and maintain any fixed infrastructure if their permit is approved
  • Many qualified vendors existing that offer services to install fixed screens, umbrella sockets or lighting
  • Businesses must provide details of the proposed fixed infrastructure design and installer qualifications as part of the application process

Application Assessment

  • View all assessment criteria in the Hobsons Bay Fixed Infrastructure Guidelines(PDF, 425KB) 
  • Council officers will assess a fixed infrastructure application against these criteria
  • If there is insufficient or missing information, a request will be made to the business to provide additional information

Application Process Overview

1. Pre-application 

2. Application 

  • Applicant submits online fixed infrastructure application (Note: includes a copy of the site plan, proposed designs, building certificate and completed Fixed Infrastructure Permit Application Form(PDF, 367KB))
  • Applicant pays application fee
  • Fixed infrastructure officer reviews application
3. Application Review (internal)

4. Implementation (if approved)

  • If your application is successful, you will be required to pay the fixed infrastructure annual permit fee and make good bond. At this point a fixed infrastructure permit and parklet licence agreement will be drafted for your review and signature
  • The contractor installing the parklet must apply for a Road Opening Permit online here
  • After installation, a fixed infrastructure officer will periodically inspect the asset to ensure all permit conditions are met

5. Renewal, Transfer or Removal

  • Renewal: automatic 12-month extension (only if fees are paid, proof of public liability insurance & no infringements received)
  • Transfer (options): (1) permit holder to request a transfer of the permit to a new host. (2) new host pays bond and the annual fee (3) old host refunded bond
  • Cancel the Permit and remove the Parklet: (1) host notifies Council and organises the removal and reinstates footpath. A Council officer assess reinstatement and refunded bond (2) host does not notify Council – Council assumes ownership, offers to new business owner, removes the asset using bond

6. Ongoing Enforcement

  • Asset is periodically inspected for compliance to permit conditions
  • If in breach of permit, enforcement under Council Local Law or removal of the asset and forfeit of bond.