The purpose of this policy is to set the conditions for the management of trade and event activity in Wellington’s public places. It also guides the prioritisation of footpath space for pedestrian activity.
While trade and event activities are valued for the vibrancy, attractiveness, safety, and diversity they can bring to Wellington, Council management is required to ensure accessibility and effective pedestrian movement, public health and safety, and the preservation of our urban, cultural, heritage, and natural environments. It will also help ensure that public space is allocated fairly and consistently for trade and event activities.
This policy recognises that public spaces are primarily for public use and enjoyment. It provides a framework to balance and manage concerns related to the diverse, and sometimes competing, use of Wellington’s public places. This policy guides how events use and operate in public places. Regulating and supporting events in public places helps the Council ensure there are opportunities for a variety of events, appropriate services, and there are no conflicts with other bookings. It will also help the Council to assist with traffic and waste management planning and to ascertain whether building and/or resource consent is required.
This policy requires anyone wanting to undertake a trading or event activity on public land to obtain approval from the Council, recognising that it is a privilege to conduct commercial activities on public land. Operations must be consistent with legislation, our bylaws, strategies, guidelines, policies, management plans, and the District Plan. The Council will set general and specific conditions for where and when trading and event activities can occur. We will also ensure appropriate standards of health and safety, accessibility, and visual amenity are maintained, as well as consider the potential impacts on the environment, private property, and local established businesses.
Trading and Events in Public Places Policy (13.3MB PDF) | Text version (8MB RTF)