Display of goods
What is it?
A Display of Goods Permit allows a business to place items for sale on the footpath directly outside their premises.
Permits are valid from 1 July to 30 June (or part of the year).
Who can apply?
You can apply if your business:
- Operates from a premises with a footpath directly in front
- Holds public liability insurance
This permit is commonly used by:
- Food businesses
- Retail and fashion stores
- Other customer-facing businesses
Do I need more than one permit?
Depending on your business activities, you may need additional permits.
For example, you may also require an Advertising Board Permit.
Use our Business Permit Finder to confirm you need.
Fees
Displays of goods are charged from 1 July to 30 June each year, or part thereof.
Fees are adjusted annually. For more information: Footpath Trading Fee Schedule 2025-26.
You will be issued with a tax invoice for your permit fees upon receipt of your complete application. A card payment fee applies.
Fees are invoiced when your complete application is received. A card payment fee applies.
You may be eligible for an interest free payment plan. Contact the Footpath Trading Unit for more details
Before you apply
They set out the rules for displaying goods on footpaths.
Checklist
You’ll need to provide:
- Public liability insurance (minimum $20 million)
- Must cover footpath items
- Must indemnify Council
- Site plan (1:100 scale) showing:
- Shop frontage width
- Footpath width (kerb to building line)
- Existing infrastructure (e.g. bins, trees, poles, seating, signage)
If using space in front of a neighbouring business:
- Provide a letter of approval
Other things to consider
Council must keep footpaths safe and accessible for everyone.
You can request relocation of public infrastructure, such as:
- Litter Bins
- Bench Seats
- Bike hoops
If you request this:
- You must demonstrate community benefit
- You must cover all associated costs (relocation and reinstatement of public infrastructure)
Trading without a permit may result in a fine.
Read our Footpath Trading Guidelines, or speak to a team member, about footpath trading regulations.
Wen you apply
Apply online via My Port Phillip:
Step 1. Register or log in
Step 2. Start a new application
Step 3. Select - Display of Goods - footpath
Step 4. Enter address details
Step 5. Submit application
Step 6. Accept terms and conditions
Step 7. Attach required documents
Step 8. Pay online
After you apply
Assessment time
- Usually up to 10 business days from receipt of a complete application.
Incomplete applications may delay assessment.
If approved, you'll receive:
- Approval letter
- Endorsed site plan (trading zone)
- Footpath trading permit
It is important that you submit all required information to avoid delays. The time required to assess your request will depend on how complex it is.
If refused:
You can request a review by the City Permits Panel.
Contact us
Our Footpath Trading team is here to help.
Send us a message on My Port Phillip
Email: footpathtrading@portphillip.vic.gov.au
Phone: 03 9209 6844