Political activity in Yarra public spaces is governed by General Local Law. [ PDF, 308.75 KB]

General Local Law outlines restrictions and permit requirements relating to obstruction or restriction of roads and footpaths, the placement of advertising boards and the handing out of flyers.

For election campaigning (local, state or federal), Yarra City Council has developed the Political Activity on Council Land or at Events Guidelines [ PDF, 114.03 KB] .

The guidelines help candidates comply with the local law and remove restrictions where possible.

Do I need a permit?

Under the guidelines, election candidates do not require a permit for:

• door knocking
• signage on a vehicle or trailer (while in transit or lawfully parked on street)
• signage on a vehicle or trailer parked on private land (with the permission of the landowner where a planning permit is either in place or not required)
• signage on private land, fences or structures (where a planning permit is either in place or not required)
• signage and/or handing out flyers, brochures or promotional material on Yarra City Council-controlled land within 20 metres of an early voting centre or a polling place

When permits are required

Permits are required on Yarra City Council controlled land to:

• hand out flyers, brochures or promotional material
• display free-standing signage, banners or flags
• set up a promotional stall, table, information display, brochure rack or similar

Key things to know:

• all permits for political activity are free of charge
• a fast-track assessment system is in place and in most cases permits can be issued within 24 hours
• political activity conducted in accordance with a permit issued by Yarra City Council is covered by Yarra City Council's insurance
• Yarra City Council is apolitical and does not endorse any individual candidate or political party

How to get a permit

To obtain a permit, please contact us:

E: [email protected]

T: 9205 5555

Please include an outline of your activity and the date and time with your request.

Gleadell Street Market

Gleadell Street Market, Richmond is a popular location for political campaigning.

The market is operated by Yarra City Council, is on public land and is considered to be a Yarra Council event. There are restrictions for election campaigning activity at the market.

No political campaigning can take place within the market grounds itself (within the area bounded by the road closure).

Campaign activity near the Bridge Road or Highett Street market entrances is permitted, provided necessary permits have been issued.