Waitomo District Council is currently reviewing two bylaws – the Public Health and Safety Bylaw and the Public Places Bylaw – and is seeking your feedback.

Public Health and Safety Bylaw

Council is responsible for protecting public safety, and regulating potential issues of public health and nuisances, within public-access places of the district.

One way Council does this is through the Public Health and Safety Bylaw, which covers matters such as keeping animals, body piercing, depositing building materials, open fires, food safety, prostitution and accommodation establishments.

The purpose of this bylaw is to maintain acceptable standards of public health and safety for the wellbeing and enjoyment of citizens, visitors, and businesses within the district.

Public Places Bylaw

Council is responsible for regulating activities that can be carried out in public places, reserves and on roads. One way Council does this is through the Public Places Bylaw, which covers matters such as public nuisances, control of skateboards, amusement devices and galleries, liquor control, mobile trading and licensing, road and building identification, and animals and stock in public places.

The purpose of this Bylaw is to regulate public places to ensure that acceptable standards of convenience, safety, visual amenity and civic values are maintained for the wellbeing and enjoyment of citizens, visitors and businesses within the district.

Public Feedback

We’re suggesting some changes to improve how both bylaws meet/achieve their purpose. Your feedback is essential in making sure it reflects the current needs of our community.

Submissions for both bylaws close at 5pm on Sunday 29 October 2023.

Click here to read the Statement of Proposals for each bylaw review and to make an online submission: