Local Laws and enforcement

Our Local Laws outline what is and isn’t allowed on Council land, roads and streets. They also explain how council meetings are run.

If you have received a Local Laws Infringement, refer to the Local Laws Infringement page for more information.

The Local Government Act 1989 (Victoria) enables local councils to develop local laws regarding a range of community issues, such as alcohol bans and glass bans.

Community Amenity Local Law 2023

The Community Amenity Local Law 2023 sets out the City of Port Phillip's approach to managing activities that impact the safety, comfort, and overall amenity of our community.

  • Adopted by Council: 21 June 2023
  • Effective from: 1 August 2023
  • Expires on: 31 August 2033
  • Applies to: All areas within the Port Phillip municipal district

This Local Law supports Council’s commitment to maintaining a safe, respectful, and well-managed public environment. It works alongside the Procedures and Protocols Manual to guide enforcement and community expectations.

Local Laws infringement notices

If you've received a Local Laws infringement notice, you can:

  • Pay online quickly and securely.
  • Learn about your options, including how to appeal or request a review.

For full details, visit the Local Laws Infringement page.

Meeting Procedure Local Law 2019

Local Law No. 2 (Meeting Procedure) 2019 sets out how Council meetings are conducted to ensure transparency, fairness, and good governance.

Its key objectives are to:

  • Clarify the roles of the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Councillors, and Council.
  • Ensure Councillors understand their rights, responsibilities, and meeting procedures.
  • Promote transparent decision-making that is accessible to the public.
  • Support safe, respectful, and inclusive participation in meetings.
  • Enable staff to provide frank and fearless advice to Council.
  • Ensure meetings are run in a consistent, efficient, and fair manner.
  • Regulate the use of the Common Seal.
  • Revoke the previous Meeting Procedure Local Law No. 2/2009.

You can download the full document here:

Meeting Procedure Local Law 2/2019 (15.2 MB).