
Approvals, licenses and permits
The City of Perth is a fantastic place to open a business. With close proximity to offices and transport, it is located in the centre of Western Australia's capital city. But before opening a business, it is important to understand the approvals, licenses and permits required to operate within the City of Perth.
Food businesses
The City registers and inspects food businesses operating in the city. There are minimum standards by which these premises must operate in relation to food safety and maintenance. If you wish to establish or purchase a food business in the City of Perth, it is recommended that you contact the City for advice prior to entering into contractual arrangements or undertaking any significant works. The construction, operation and maintenance of food businesses are subject to the requirements of the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code.
-
Food trucks in City of Perth
The City of Perth Mobile Food Trading Policy allows for unique and high quality food vehicles to trade at selected parks and reserves, providing relaxed outdoor dining options to local residents and visitors, and adding to the overall vibrancy of our city.
Applications are now closed, and will reopen 1 January 2019.
Find a food truck
Mobile food operators participating in the program will be able to trade seven days a week between 7am and 3am at any of the locations listed below:
- John Oldham Park, Narrows Interchange
- JH Abrahams, Nedlands
- Langley Park , Perth (two locations).
-
Temporary food vendors
Businesses planning to operate a food stall or food truck at an event in the city must:
- Hold current Food Act registration with the local government in which the business is located.
- Lodge a special events application form to the City along with the relevant applicable fee.
- Comply with the City’s stall holder guidelines.
Annual and one-off vendor licenses are available. Annual Food Vendor Permits are $241.40 for the 2018/19 financial year. A one-off Food Vendor Permit is $144.45 for one event only.
The City will conduct an inspection of your stall/vehicle prior to the event or on the day of the event.
- Twilight Hawkers Market online application form
- Annual (temporary) Food Vendor
- Temporary Food Vendor
For alternative payment and application options, please contact the City of Perth on (08) 9461 3218.
-
Food business notification
Please complete the Food Business Notification form if your business:
- Serves complementary drinks in conjunction with another business conducted on the premises (eg. hairdresser providing tea and coffee).
- Only sells shelf stable products that are entirely contained in a closed package (eg. liquor store with no tastings).
A $45 fee will apply.
-
Food business registration
Please complete the online Food Business Registration form if you have purchased an existing business and will make no change to the premises or operations of the business.
A $95 fee will apply. An annual service fee will also apply.
-
Food business approval
Please complete the online Food Business Approval form if you are making changes to a kitchen such as changing equipment, cupboards or flooring (does not include changes to walls or ventilation/ roof. You will be required to upload a floor plan showing where food is stored or handled and a materials schedule.
A $95 registration fee and $150 approval fee will apply. An annual service fee will also apply for new registrations.
If you are fitting out a new food business, making changes to a kitchen which include changes to walls or ventilation (roof), or making any changes to the outside of the building, please phone the City for advice. You will require a building permit and may require planning approval prior to applying for your Food Business Approval. Once you have submitted your building permit you will be required to complete the online Food Business Approval form.
-
Alfresco dining
Food businesses wishing to operate an alfresco area on public land (such as a footpath) are required to obtain an alfresco dining licence from the City. Alfresco dining areas are subject to compliance with the City’s Alfresco Dining Policy and local law. Annual fees applicable to alfresco areas are based on the size of the alfresco area and the precinct in which the business is located. Please refer to our fees and charges page for a description of alfresco fees by area.
-
Liquor licensing
To be able to sell liquor, a liquor licence is required from the Department of Racing, Gaming and Liquor. An application for liquor licence is to be accompanied by a certificate of local health authority (section 39 certificate) and certificate of local planning authority (section 40 certificate) from the City of Perth. Application fees apply. For more information please contact the City.
Food safety training
All food handlers and people working with food are required to be competent in terms of food safety skills and knowledge. I’m Alert is a free online interactive food safety training course that covers basic food safety skills and knowledge. It is recommended that all existing and new food business employees complete this online training course prior to undertaking food handling activities. In addition to this, the City can customise group food safety training packages for food businesses operating within the City. Food safety training delivered by the City of Perth covers topics such as:
- Temperature control of potentially hazardous foods.
- Basic microbiology.
- Hygienic food preparation.
- Maintenance of premises and equipment.
- Food receipt and transport.
- Food safe® food safety program.
If you are interested in food safety training, please contact the City.
Other businesses
Lodging houses
The City licenses and inspects backpacker lodging, hostels, transitional/crisis accommodation and other short stay accommodation operating in the City. There are minimum standards by which these premises must operate in relation to hygiene, fire and electrical safety and the number of people that can be accommodated in the premises.
If you wish to establish or purchase a lodging house in the City of Perth, it is recommended that you contact the City for advice prior to entering into contractual arrangements or undertaking any significant works. The construction, operation and maintenance of lodging houses are subject to the requirements of the City of Perth Health Local Law.
Obstruction permits and requirements
There are a variety of reasons why roads, footpaths or verges may need to be closed or obstructed. Any proposed works affecting the road, verge or the footpath within the City of Perth must have an Obstruction Permit. Failure to do so will result in infringements being issued to responsible parties and a notice to remove the obstruction.
Obstruction Permits are required and issued under the authority of the City of Perth Thoroughfares and Public Places Local Law 2017 and the City of Perth Local Government Property Local Law 2005. Obstruction permits can take a minimum of three working days to process.
-
Road, verge or footpathAny proposed works which affects the road, verge or the footpath within the City of Perth must have an Obstruction Permit. Failure to do so will result in infringements being issued to responsible parties and a notice to remove the obstruction.
-
On-street parking
Any works obstructing limiting the public use of on street parking bays will be charged as a part of the permit application. Any use of parking bays that are not for vehicles will need an obstruction permit. If the obstruction permit is for state body works please reference this in the application. Any access into malls will require all vehicle registrations of any vehicles intending to enter the malls.
Please note that the processing time for parking bays will not commence until all other approvals are complete for all other stakeholders.
-
Transport
If any part of the proposed works will impact on vehicular movement, the City of Perth Transport Unit may require a Traffic Management Plan (TMP). A TMP is required for any activity on the road reserve and obstructs the passage of vehicle or the movement of any other road user. TMP's are prepared and implemented by accredited personnel and designed in accordance to Main Roads WA Code of Practice and the relevant standards. Please refer to Main Roads WA website for further information.
Any works that will be in close proximity to traffic signal or are classed as complex as defined in AS 1742.3 may need a Road Traffic Manager (RTM) approval.
Processing times vary:
- Basic Traffic Management Plan as defined in Main Roads WA Codes of Practice and AS 1742.3 – minimum of three full working days.
- Complex Traffic Management Plan as defined in Main Roads WA Codes of Practice and AS 1742.3 – minimum of three full working days.
- Complex Traffic Management Plan as defined in Main Roads WA Codes of Practice and AS 1742.3 (within 200m of traffic signals) – minimum of 18 full working days.
-
Noise controlAny works to be conducted outside normal working hours will require a noise management plan as required by the Environmental Protection (noise) Regulation 1997. For further information visit the Noise control page.
-
ParksAny works that will affect any garden beds trees, shrubs and/or flora within the City of Perth are required to submit a marked-up map/plan of work area that provides a damage mitigation strategy for any damage that may be incurred. Processing will take a minimum of two working days.
Public buildings and lodging houses forms
Please click on the relevant section for more information and forms for changes to your business.
-
Change of owner
Please complete the Change of Owner of a Health Premises form if you have purchased an existing business and will make no change to the premises or operations of the business.
A $71 transfer fee will apply.
-
Changes to building
If you are making changes to a business, such as refurbishing the kitchen, please complete the Online Health Approval (This does not include changes to walls or ventilation/ roof). You will be required to upload a floor plan showing the proposed changes.
-
Changes to capacity
Please complete the Online Health Approval if you would like to have the capacity of your venue reassessed.
A $150 approval fee will apply.
If you are fitting out a new food business, are making changes to the premises which include changes to walls or ventilation (roof), or making any changes to the outside of the building, please phone the City for advice. You will require a building permit and may require planning approval prior to applying for health approval.
Once you have submitted your building permit you will be required to complete the Online Health Approval.
Mall deliveries
Access to private properties in City Malls must be requested by the owner of the property, or their agent/s. If the owner gives consent for access to their property, an online Mall Access Application Form will need to be completed, and the details registered by the City of Perth Communications Office. Parking on private property will only be approved if the bays are licensed.If the owner refuses access to their property enquiries should be made to the City of Perth Communications Office to make alternative arrangements.
Should you wish to discuss any of the above contact us on (08) 9461 3800 or parkingpermits@cityofperth.wa.gov.au
-
Mall access terms and conditions
To prevent unauthorised vehicles from entering either the Hay St or Murray Street Malls to ensure public safety particularly during peak pedestrian traffic times.
All applications require 48 hours (2 working days) to notice.
Mall Access Times for Vehicles Parking in the Mall
Vehicles that are required to park in the mall for maintenance, shop-fit etc; can only do so during the followings times:-
MONDAY - THURSDAY 19:30 - 06:00 FRIDAY 23:00 - 06:00 SATURDAY 18:00 - 07:00 SUNDAY 18:00 - 09: 00 - Authorisation must be granted prior to entry
- An online application can be obtained from the City of Perth website
- No more than three (3) vehicles per company are allowed to park in either mall at any given time
- Deliveries must utilise the loading docks (see below) except those with their own loading docks ie: David Jones, Carillon, Target
- Companies with private registered parking can access the mall at any time except during non-vehicle movement times
To access the mall, vehicles must enter via the bollards using the intercom to speak directly with City Watch. If the vehicle has been registered and approved for entry, City Watch will lower the bollards and allow access.
Murray Street
- Entrance from William St
- One Way Only
Hay Street
- Entrance form Barrack St
- One Way Only
Private Parking off Mall
Properties with their own loading docks, private parking or lanes can access the mall at any time except during no vehicle movement times (see below).
Under no circumstances are vehicles to stop or park in the malls from 0600 to 1930 (2300 on Friday’s).
Parking on private property will only be approved if the bays are licensed and requests have been approved by the owner/agent.
The owner/agent must complete an online application (HERE), once granted the vehicle registration/s will be recorded on the City of Perth database.
No Vehicle Movement Times
There is strictly no vehicular movement through the malls between the following times:
MONDAY - THURSDAY 02:00-1400 & 17:00 - 18:00 FRIDAY 12:00 - 14:00 & 17:00-23:00 SATURDAY 09:00 - 18:00 & Access to Private Docks & Parking is OK SUNDAY 11:00 - 17:00 & Access to Private Docks & Parking is OK CHRISTMAS TRADING ACCESS HOURS
During extended Christmas trading time’s access to the malls is restricted further to ensure the safety of pedestrian traffic.
Weekdays 7am - 9pm Saturday 7am - 6pm Sunday 8am - 6pm Boxing Day & New Year’s Day 8am – 6pm Christmas Day Closed Mall Access Times for Vehicles Parking in the Mall – Christmas Trading
MONDAY - THURSDAY 21:30 - 06:00 FRIDAY 22:30 - 06:00 SATURDAY 09:00 - 1800 SUNDAY 17:00 - 0700 No Vehicle Movement Times – Christmas Trading
MONDAY - THURSDAY 12:00 - 1400 & 17:00 - 21:30 FRIDAY 12:00 -1400 & 17:00 - 23:00 SATURDAY 09:00 - 18:00 & Access to Private Docks & Parking is OK SUNDAY 09:00 - 18:00 & Access to Private Docks & Parking is OK Application for Mall Access
An online application form must be completed at least two (2) working days prior to entry date. The City of Perth will review the application and respond via email with authorisation if the terms and conditions have been met.
Infringements
City of Perth Thoroughfares and Public Places Local Law 2017
- Code 1088 2.2(1)(c) Causing an obstruction on a thoroughfare - $250.00
- Code 1128 2.21(1)(b) Drive a vehicle on a closed thoroughfare - $350.00
LOADING DOCKS
There are two loading docks for deliveries into the malls:
FORREST PLACE CAR PARK 20- Best for deliveries to Murray Street Mall
- Access off Wellington Street
- West Bound before footbridge
- 3.6 m height clearance
ENEX 100 LOADING DOCK- Best for deliveries to Hay Street Mall
- Access off 100 St Georges Tce
- East bound
- 4.2 m height clearance
- Private Dock – for access phone 9476 7676
Loading Docks - Access TimesMONDAY - THURSDAY 06:00 - 18:00 FRIDAY 06:00 - 21:00 SATURDAY 07:00 - 17:30 SUNDAY 11:00 -18:00
Loading Zone - Parking Local Law
Code 10006 clause 2.3(1)(g) A person must not stop or park a vehicle in a parking facility which is designated by a sign as a loading dock unless a person is actively engaged in loading or unloading goods or materials used in any trade, business, industry or other work.
The City intends to relocate the above clause and update the parking signs, but until further notice, please use the clauses outlined below:
If the vehicle is a truck or marked courier vehicle (authorised) and is not actively engaged in loading or unloading from that vehicle infringements should be issued for:
- Apply the above Code 10006 clause 2.3(1)(g)/li>
If truck or marked courier vehicle exceeds the 30 minute time limit an infringement should be issued for:
- Code 10003 clause 2.3(1)(d) Stopped a vehicle longer than time specified by a sign
If the vehicle isn't a truck or marked courier vehicle as specified on the sign, infringement should be issued for:
- Code 10019 clause 2.3(6) Stopped a vehicle in an 'Authorised Vehicles Excepted' area
WHERE TO ACCESS TO HAY AND MURRAY STREET MALLS
Delivery access to Murray Street Mall is to be made from Forrest Place loading dock. Delivery access to Hay Street Mall is to be made from the ENEX100 loading dock.
Additional fees
-
Parking feesWhere parking bays are impacted by works being undertaken, fees are applicable. You will be invoiced separately for these fees once an assessment is made by the City’s Parking Services Unit.
-
Works bond
A bond is generally required for road excavations and where permitted, whenever a heavy vehicle or machine is to be driven on or across a footpath or in the malls. If a bond is required, you will be invoiced separately.
Additional fees may be applicable for public health approvals and traffic management advice. Where these fees are payable, you will be notified by the Activity Approvals Unit and invoiced separately.
Obstruction Permits will not be issued until all additional invoices have been paid.
Required documents
DOCUMENT WHEN REQUIRED Diagram of location of works Required for every application. Diagram of work site layout Required for every application. Works staging plans Only required when works will be scheduled in stages. Notification letter for out of hours works Only required if works being undertaken outside of the following hours:
7am-7pm Monday - Saturday (excluding public holidays).
Noise Management Plan (NMP) Only required if works being undertaken outside of the following hours:
7am-7pm Monday - Saturday (excluding public holidays).
Drawing detailing new pits and conduits Where new pits and conduits are being installed. Traffic Management Plan Required when the activity that obstructs the passage of vehicles (full road closures or partial road closures) Traffic Management Plan, in accordance with the Code of Practice, including traffic and pedestrian movement and control. Please refer to Main Roads WA for information on Traffic Management Plans. Notification letter for road closures and diagram showing the proposed distribution area Required when a road will be closed. Certificate of Currency – Public liability insurance, minimum indemnity of $10m Only required for commercial works. To apply
The permit holder is responsible for ensuring compliance with the conditions as outlined in the Obstruction Permit. If you are applying on behalf of another company, and are not able or willing to ensure compliance, please have the appropriate company complete the application form. Non-compliance with permit conditions can result in infringements and/ or work being halted.
Please ensure you have read the information of processing times prior to submitting your application.
First time user
If you are a first time user, register online.
Registered users
If you are a registered user, please sign in and then submit an Obstruction Permit online.
- FOI Information Statement 2016-2017811.17 KB | PDF Document