Extended outdoor dining is the extension of hospitality venues into public spaces such as car parking spaces.

Extended outdoor dining was introduced late in 2020 to support hospitality businesses in recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw density limits and restrictions placed on indoor gatherings. 

Thirty-seven Maroondah businesses trialled free extended outdoor dining over a two-year period. Maroondah Council responded to learnings throughout this trial period, considering feedback from business owners, the community and the Maroondah Business Advisory Committee.

Extended outdoor dining policy

In September 2023 Maroondah Council endorsed an Extended Outdoor Dining Policy. This policy supports thriving, liveable neighbourhoods for our community. It aims to ensure that opportunities for outdoor dining are implemented in a balanced way and also provides long-term guidance around supporting local hospitality businesses.

The policy applies to existing businesses with outdoor dining in place and future applications by hospitality businesses.

The Maroondah Extended Outdoor Dining Policy guides Maroondah City Council’s decision making in relation to hospitality businesses expanding outdoor dining areas into public spaces such as on-street parking. This decision making takes into account local laws as well as planning and engineering requirements. 

View the Maroondah Extended Outdoor Dining Policy. 

How do I apply for extended outdoor dining?

To apply for extended outdoor dining please contact the BizHub team on 9298 4679 or email bizhub@maroondah.vic.gov.au.

Applications will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, taking into account:

1. Specific amenity, public liability and safety requirements are met, as detailed in the Maroondah Street Activities Policy Guidelines 

2. A road occupation licence agreement to occupy the specified outdoor area has been endorsed by Maroondah City Council

3. That the business holds a current public liability ‘Certificate of Currency’ and provides a copy of the certificate to Council

4. All planning permit requirements are met, including a liquor licence if applicable, and

5. The required fee has been paid to Council.

 

 

 

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