What is a Community Local Law?

    Councils use local laws to address community needs and issues within a municipality. 

    Local laws are designed to protect public health, safety, or amenity. They aim to ensure that the actions of an individual or group do not unreasonably impact on the rest of the community. 

    Local laws only apply within the municipality they are made in.  They cannot duplicate, conflict with or be inconsistent with other State or Federal laws.

     The Community Local Law covers areas including:

    • use of public places
    • protection and maintenance of the natural environment 
    • land management plans
    • protection of Council land and assets
    • keeping of animals
    • permits
    • enforcement
    • other matters that protect the amenity, health and safety of our community.

    What is involved in making a new Community Local Law?

    When a council wishes to make a new local law, it must advertise the new local law to the community and consider any submissions received before it decides to implement the law.

    Local Laws are usually in place for a 10-year period and are reviewed during this time frame.  This ensures that they remain suitable and continue to address the needs of the community.

FAQs