Hamilton City Council is asking for feedback on their draft rule changes to make it easier for businesses, buskers and market organisers to operate in public spaces.

Council is reviewing both the Trading in Public Places Policy and Public Places Bylaw - two documents that set out how activities like outdoor dining, footpath signs, markets and street performances are managed.

The proposal includes a change to allow businesses to put out one footpath sign without needing a permit, to reduce their compliance costs.

The removal of public liability insurance as a requirement for an outdoor dining permit would take away a big cost barrier for some businesses.

Under the proposed changes, busking permits would last 12 months instead of six, and performers would be allowed to use amplified sound during set hours.

Deputy Mayor Geoff Taylor, Chair of the Central City Revitalisation Sub-Committee said: “This is about making it easier to do business in the city, and part of our efforts to revitalise the area. We are keen to hear from the community about what matters to you.”

Additional minor changes are proposed to clarify some definitions and make the documents easier to understand and use.

Public feedback is open until Tuesday 24 March 2026. Hamiltonians can read more about the proposed changes and have their say at hamilton.govt.nz/haveyoursay.

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