Policy

The Outdoor Commercial Recreation Policy enables the licensing of recreation providers to deliver their activities in public open space for the community. 

To find out if your business is eligible and further details about this licence please read the Outdoor Commercial Recreation Policy 2024.

Licensing

Expression of Interest Applications are closed for the 2025 - 2028 licence period. Stayed tuned for the next EOI opening.

Commercial recreation activities in our open spaces help create a vibrant and active place for everyone. Licensing helps us to: 

  • Protect and preserve our natural environment.
  • Provide equitable access to our limited public space for diverse activities. 
  • Ensure activities are safe and well-managed.
  • Balance the needs of all open space users, including residents and visitors. 

Fee structure

Annual licence fees are determined through Councils annual budget process, as per the Plan for Port Phillip 2025-35 (page 330).

Participant fees, implemented by the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA), are as follows:

  • $1.60 per child
  • $2.40 per adult

All fees are subject to change in alignment with Council Plan and DEECA Policy updates.

Apply for an Outdoor Commercial Recreation Licence

Applications must contain all the requested information, details and documentation to enable Council (in its sole discretion) to evaluate in accordance with the Outdoor Commercial Recreation Policy. An application that does not meet these requirements may be deemed by Council as non-compliant and the application rejected. Breach of any applicable laws or Council policies in connection with the preparation of an application will result in the submission being voided.

Council will not consider any applications lodged after the closing time stated above.

FAQs