Accommodation venues

Shared facility accommodation (eg backpacker and youth hostels), caravan parks and camping grounds are regulated under Council's Local Law No. 6 ( PDF, 0.31 MB ).

Permits

A permit is usually required to operate these types of business; refer to the Local Law for full details including a list of activities that do not require a permit. Council may impose conditions on the permit, including the maximum number of people accommodated, maximum length of stay, waste and sanitation provisions, fire safety plans, pest management, insurances and more.

Businesses also need to comply with provisions under the CairnsPlan 2016 and other regulations relating to hygiene, safety and comfort.

Below you will find step-by-step guides for new businesses, existing businesses and taking over a business.

New businesses and amendments to existing businesses

Note: Council must be notified of any proposed changes to an existing licensed premises.

1. Check with Town Planning to determine if the accommodation type is permitted in the area. Use our free pre-lodgement service to provide details of your proposal by submitting a General development enquiry online request.
2. Check with Trade Waste if you require a trade waste permit.
3. Check with Local Laws if any other permits are required.
4. Provide your plans to Council for approval.
5. Provide an application for Operation of Shared Accommodation (share facility, caravan park or camping ground ( PDF, 0.5 MB ).

Renewing your permit

Renewal notices (invoices) are issued each year for businesses that hold a licence or permit to operate in the Cairns Regional Council area. These notices are sent directly to the business email address as registered with Council, but please look in your Junk email as well. Renewal invoices are posted for those businesses who have not opted in for email renewals.

If you are no longer operating the business, your contact details have changed or you need a copy of the renewal invoice, please contact the administration team on 4044 3237 or email regadmin@cairns.qld.gov.au

Taking over a business (transfer of permit)

Note: Existing permits are not transferable.

1. Before you purchase a business, we recommend that you request a Health pre-sales search (Land Record Search). This allows an Environmental Health Officer to inspect the premises, physical audit to identify any issues.
2. The vendor (or their legal counsel) will also need to complete and submit this form to authorise Council to release information to you ( PDF, 0.15 MB ).
3. Check if you need Trade Waste approval.
4. Check with Local Laws if you require any other permits.
5. Complete and application for Operation of Shared Accommodation (share facility, caravan park or camping ground ( PDF, 0.5 MB ).