Itinerant vending

Itinerant vendors provide a convenient service to visitors and residents of Moreton Bay. Itinerant vending is trading on public roads from a commercial vehicle, for example, an ice cream van. These vehicles can only stop to make a sale when their driver is waved down by a person intending to make a purchase.

You will need approval to trade on public roads from a commercial vehicle. Council regulates these activities to ensure they are carried out safely while taking other public space users and residents into consideration, and to maintain the purpose and amenity of our public spaces.

You need to apply with all supporting documentation at least 30 business days before you will be selling goods. Once all supporting documents have been provided, your application will be reviewed and assessed under the Commercial Use of Public Land and Roads Local Law 2023.

You do not need local law approval if you only want to sell from private property, such as an industrial premises. Permission is required from the property owner before entering private property. Other approvals may be required if you are operating from private property. If you are unsure, contact Council.

How to apply

Step 1.Complete a risk management plan

Complete the Risk management plan template(DOCX, 927KB).

Step 2.Take out public liability insurance

Evidence of a current public liability insurance policy to the value of $20,000,000 in the same name as the applicant should be provided with your application.

Ensure the location listed on your policy includes public land, for example, Anywhere in Australia or Worldwide. This must be outlined either on your certificate of currency or the terms and conditions of your policy and provided to Council. If this is not listed, obtain written confirmation from your insurer.

Step 3.Collect supporting documents

You may need to provide other documents and licences, depending on your business. If applicable, provide:

  • a copy of the business vehicle registration details
  • photos of the vehicle
  • a copy of the food licence required under the Food Act 2006

Step 4.Review conditions

Make sure you review and understand the Commercial use of public land and roads conditions(PDF, 531KB). Specific conditions may be added after your application has been assessed. 

Step 5.Review fees and charges

In accordance with Council's fees and charges, an application fee of T1206 is payable at the time of application. Council will contact you for payment.

Other fees are payable when your activity is approved or renewed. These fees are:

  • T1194 annual commercial fee. This fee is on a pro rata monthly basis to 30 September.
  • a T1209 annual renewal fee.

The renewal period for approval is from 1 October to 30 September.

Charities and not-for-profit organisations are exempt from paying fees if evidence is provided.

Step 6.Complete an application

Download and complete the Commercial use of public land and roads(PDF, 943KB) application form and submit along with your supporting documents:

The applicant for approval must be a legal entity, such as an individual, company, incorporated body, unincorporated body, partnership, body corporate or trustee.