North Sydney Council Proposes Fees For Park Events Like Picnics, Weddings, And Gender Reveal Parties

North Sydney Council is proposing a new fee structure for the commercial and organised use of its parks and public open spaces, with charges ranging from small booking fees to up to $2,000 for large-scale events.

Under the draft policy, which follows a public consultation process and is expected to go to a council vote in June, fees would apply to organised activities including weddings, gender reveal parties, commercial pop-up picnics, fitness groups and other structured gatherings. The policy applies to 23 council-managed parks and reserves.

The highest fees would apply to category one parks, including popular harbourside locations such as Blues Point Reserve and Cremorne Point Reserve, where large events such as wedding receptions or dinners with up to 100 guests could incur charges of up to $2,000 for three-hour bookings.

Smaller gatherings would be treated differently under the proposal. Groups of fewer than 21 people using parks informally would generally not be charged, while some parks would continue to allow informal group use of up to 60 people without fees, provided no space is reserved.

The policy also introduces annual permit fees for certain commercial users, including dog walking businesses, which could be charged around $300 per year. Fitness trainers and school groups using parks for organised activities may also be subject to permits and fees.

Council has stated the changes are intended to manage increasing demand for limited public open space and to address wear and tear, with revenue directed toward park maintenance and infrastructure.

A council spokesperson said the approach aims to ensure fair access while maintaining everyday use of parks for the general public, particularly for casual recreation and small gatherings.

The proposal has generated submissions during consultation, and will be considered by councillors at an upcoming meeting in June, with a potential implementation date of July 1 if adopted.