A new fee policy for organised park events goes to a decisive vote this month, threatening to hit large gatherings at premium harbourside locations including Blues Point Reserve and Cremorne Point Reserve with charges of up to $2,000.
The proposal follows a public consultation period and spans 23 public parks and reserves across the LGA. The policy will take effect from 1 July 2026 if adopted, though civic leaders have yet to make a final decision on the resident feedback collected during the exhibition window.
What organisers could be charged
Under the draft policy, fees would apply to organised activities including weddings, gender reveal parties, commercial pop-up picnics, fitness groups and other structured gatherings.
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 and informal gatherings are treated differently. 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 non-state educational groups using parks for organised activities may also be subject to permits and fees.
The context behind the proposal
North Sydney is navigating significant financial pressure. An approved rate increase came into effect this financial year after an independent review found the LGA had been operating with a structural deficit for years, with ageing infrastructure and insufficient reserves to fund basic maintenance and renewal.
The authority has stated the proposed 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. The approach aims to ensure fair access while maintaining everyday use of parks for the general public, particularly for casual recreation and small gatherings.
Blues Point Reserve, the grassy headland directly across the harbour from the Opera House, is one of the most photographed and visited spots on Sydney Harbour’s lower north shore. Its views draw a consistent stream of picnickers, photographers and event organisers, with demand for the space on weekends particularly high.
The proposal recognises that premium locations carry different maintenance costs and different demand profiles to quieter neighbourhood parks.
Decision expected in June
Local representatives will debate the proposal at an upcoming meeting this June, locking in a 1 July implementation date if it passes. Decision makers will review all community submissions during this final June session, and no fees will apply unless the policy officially passes.
For more information on the draft policy and the upcoming meeting schedule, click here.
Published 4-June-2026
