A wedding with on-site dining at Blues Point Reserve will attract a $1,600 booking fee under North Sydney’s new park rules, while commercial dog walkers and personal trainers will need permits to use designated public spaces. Ordinary dog walks, picnics and exercise will remain free.
The charges take effect on 1 January 2027, following the launch of an online booking system on 6 October 2026. Authorities have placed 23 popular parks and reserves into three categories, with locations such as Blues Point Reserve, Bradfield Park South and Cremorne Point Reserve West among the highest-demand sites.
What A Harbourside Wedding Will Cost
At Blues Point Reserve, a three-hour wedding ceremony with dining on site will cost $1,600, plus a $1,000 refundable security bond. A ceremony with the reception held elsewhere will cost $800 for the same period, while smaller ceremonies involving up to 15 people can remain free if they require no reserved space, equipment or catering.
Bookings are required for weddings, commitment ceremonies and gender reveal events involving more than 15 people. Ceremonies at participating parks are limited to 60 attendees, including celebrants, photographers and other service providers, with additional requirements potentially applying to insurance and waste management.
The rules also extend to birthday celebrations and other private gatherings. Groups of more than 21 people may need to book and pay a fee, depending on the park and activity, although some locations will continue allowing informal gatherings of up to 60 people free of charge.
A Free Stroll, But A Permit For Paid Work
Commercial dog walkers, fitness trainers and picnic operators will require annual permits costing $300 to operate in participating parks. Fitness businesses may also face session-based charges, while non-government schools using public reserves for regular activities will be subject to permit and usage fees.
The distinction leaves everyday recreation unchanged. People walking their own dogs, exercising independently or meeting friends for an informal picnic can continue using North Sydney’s parks without paying. Commercial operators must obtain approval, regardless of group size. Eligible dog walkers, fitness trainers and picnic operators can receive their first annual permit free by applying before 31 December 2026, although other charges may still apply.
Authorities have linked the new arrangements to growing demand for limited open space, particularly around Crows Nest and St Leonards. Public open space in the precinct is projected to decline from 3.42 square metres per person in 2024 to 2.85 square metres by 2036, when approximately 90 per cent of residents are expected to live in medium- or high-density housing.
Ms Zoë Baker said the framework was intended to accommodate organised and commercial activities while protecting access for other park users. Revenue collected will contribute towards maintaining and improving public open spaces.
Booking fees are waived for activities taking place before January 2027, although compulsory costs such as insurance, waste bins or security bonds may still apply. Park listings, booking requirements and permit applications are available through North Sydney Council’s booking portal.
Published 15-October-2026
