There's nothing like a cold beveragino on a hot summer's day at the pub with some friends. In Europe and England, we're accustomed to grabbing said drink, and taking it outside to stand around and chat – and it brings a feeling like no other. And now as of 1 October, Sydney is finally letting us experience that exact blissfulness.
City of Sydney has confirmed you can now stand and have a drink in an approved outdoor area at a licensed venue – even if there are no tables or chairs. And this isn't just beneficial for the people of Sydney but businesses, too. Below, find everything to know about the exciting proposition that has blessed parts of Sydney.
What has actually changed?
Basically, The City of Sydney has removed the council requirement for venues to have a table or shelf when standing in an outdoor dining area. Venues can have approved outdoor spaces where people stand and socialise without furniture.
When does the new rule start?
This will take effect on 1 October 2026.
Does this apply to everywhere in Sydney?
Sadly, this only applies to venues in the City of Sydney council, rather than across Greater Sydney. There are also exceptions within the city. For example, the council’s policy excludes The Rocks, Circular Quay, Barangaroo and Darling Harbour, where outdoor dining is managed by other government agencies. However if this initiative proves successful, we're hopeful that other councils will consider something similar for other areas.
Will every pub and bar offer standing drinks outside?
That depends on the venue and its approvals. Businesses need permission to use public space for outdoor dining, and changes to an existing area or layout may require an updated application. An empty footpath outside a pub doesn’t automatically become a standing area.
Suburbs include Darlinghurst, Elizabeth Bay, Haymarket, Newtown, Paddington, Potts Point and more. Essentially, if they have a liquor licence can be involved in this change.
What else is changing?
The update goes beyond standing drinks, with the council also sayigng the changes will make permit applications easier, allow more flexibility in using footpath space, help neighbouring businesses share unused space, and make it easier to add planter boxes. The council is also developing a process for turning temporary on-street dining areas into permanent spaces.
Why is this good news?
More flexibility like this gives businesses greater choice in how they use their outdoor areas, including the option to create a space for standing and conversation without needing to furnish every corner.
The changes also build on the City’s earlier decision to permanently remove outdoor dining fees. And for the customers, the appeal is simply a little more freedom to enjoy the fresh air and going out.
