Business regulations & permits

Council regulates many business activities including food and dining, accommodation, personal services, advertising, commercial filming and busking.

Health licence/permit payments due 30 September 2026

Council will issue health renewals (food business, higher risk personal appearance services, shared accommodation, caravan parks and camping grounds) from 1 August 2026, for businesses that hold a licence or permit to operate in the Cairns Regional Council area.

Renewal invoices will go directly to your email address, but please check your junk inbox as well. Invoices will be posted if you have not opted in for email renewals.

Payment is due by 30 September 2026.

If you no longer operate the business, your details have changed or you need a copy of your renewal invoice, please email the Administration team or phone (07) 4044 3237.

Accommodation venues

Caravan parks, camping grounds, backpacker accommodation and shared facility accommodation venues require a Council permit. Details of how to apply, renew or update a permit.

Advertising

Council regulates advertising devices and signage under our Local Laws. You may need a permit before you install advertising devices or footpath stickers and decals.

Busking

Busking contributes to the vibrancy of our city while providing opportunities for local and visiting artists. Buskers need to obtain a permit from Council to perform in public places.

Commercial activities on Council land

Permits are required if you want to conduct certain commercial activities on Council land or roads.

Filming & photography

Council approval is required for commercial filming or related activities on public open space, footpaths or roads.

Food safety & licensing

Food business regulations, licensing requirements and food safety guidelines.

Footpath dining

If you operate a food business and would like to use the Council footpath as an outdoor dining area for your patrons, you must apply for a footpath dining permit.

Home based business

A home based business is conducted in a residential dwelling and is operated by the residents. You may need Council approval and conditions can apply.

Personal appearance services

Businesses such as tattooing, body piercing, hairdressing and beauty therapy are considered higher risk services and require permits. Other personal appearance services require operators to follow infection control guidelines.

Temporary entertainment events

Council regulates temporary entertainment events under its Local Laws. Permits are required for certain events.

Touting

Touting is not allowed on Council land including footpaths, roadways, public seating areas, Cairns Esplanade, Barlow Park, Cairns Botanic Gardens and other public spaces.

Trade waste

Businesses must manage trade waste correctly. If your business disposes of anything other than domestic sewage into drains, you must apply for a Trade Waste Approval. Refer to the application process outlined below.

Last Updated: 30 July 2026

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