Consultation has concluded

This policy outlines guidelines for fair and equitable decisions regarding the use, approval, and management of public spaces within Port Macquarie-Hastings Council's jurisdiction. It provides direction on permitted activities and the terms under which they are conducted.

Public spaces in our community serve various purposes, including social, cultural, and economic benefits. Council is dedicated to maintaining these areas for family activities, social gatherings, and community events. This policy applies to all beaches, parks, reserves, sports fields, roads, and footpaths under the care, control, and management of Port Macquarie-Hastings Council.

Activities permitted in public spaces may include but not limited to:

  • Outdoor dining and trading
  • A-Frame sign displays
  • Beach or water-based operations (surf schools, kayak hire, etc.)
  • Fitness training and boot camps
  • Adventure tours and visitor attractions
  • Mobile food vendors
  • Location filming
  • Special events, weddings, and private functions
  • Entertainment activities (theatrical performances, music, etc.)
  • Use of loudspeakers and sound amplifying devices
  • Mooring at Lady Nelson Wharf
  • Alcohol use in specified areas
  • Display of signage
  • Use of drones (RPAS)

Approval from Council may be required for these activities, and those involving temporary or permanent structures might require Development Approval.

This policy aims to:

  • Establish sustainable management practices for public spaces
  • Ensure equitable access for business activities and recreational use
  • Support local economic development
  • Safeguard public safety
  • Protect local flora, fauna, and visual aesthetics
  • Define application and approval processes
  • Identify permissible and inappropriate activities
  • Prevent unauthorised encroachments and illegal activities
  • Enforce compliance with policy guidelines

You can view the Draft Management of Public Spaces Policy to the right under the documents tab, or below if you are viewing on a mobile device.

We're asking for your input on the Draft Management of Public Spaces Policy. Share your thoughts through the survey provided below, or by sending us an email or letter.


How to get involved

There are a number of ways to have your say:

  • Take our short online survey below:
  • Email your feedback to council@pmhc.nsw.gov.au; or
  • Post your feedback to:
    Chief Executive Officer
    Port Macquarie-Hastings Council
    PO Box 84
    Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Consultation closes Tuesday 6 August 5:00pm

CLOSED: This survey has concluded.

Survey

Survey closes 5pm Tuesday 6 August 2024.

Writing a submission is one way of sharing your views and opinions with Council. All submissions are considered before making a decision and your submission may be included in a report to Council.

Note: Information collected via submissions and petitions is public information, this information may form part of Council reports or made public in their entirety subject to the provisions of the Local Government Act 1993 or the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (GIPA Act). You may request, in writing, that Council suppress the personal information in your submission from public release, if you consider that the personal safety of any person would be affected if the information was not suppressed Any such request will be dealt with in accordance with the GIPA Act and the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998.