Perth Outdoor Dining Expands in Winter After Permit Rollout

The City of Perth issued 127 new outdoor dining permits on 15 June that allow portable heaters in 14 additional streets and laneways.

Residents noticed the difference within days. Earlier winters often meant empty tables after 6pm on weeknights, but now foot traffic stays steady into the evening across several inner-city pockets. The timing lines up with a broader push by local councils to keep footpaths active during cooler months rather than letting venues close early.

Two neighbourhoods drawing the crowds

William Street in Northbridge gained 18 new heater approvals, with venues such as The Classroom and The Moon now seating diners outside until 10pm on Fridays. In Subiaco, the laneway behind Rokeby Road added 22 permits, letting spots near Subiaco Square keep tables warm without extra noise complaints. Both areas sit within easy reach of the Fremantle Line and several bus routes, which helps workers finish shifts and head straight to dinner.

Bookings data from the City of Perth tourism office shows a 38 percent rise in reservations at permitted sites between 20 June and 5 July compared with the same fortnight last year. Average spend per table at these locations sits at $68, up from $51 in July 2025, according to point-of-sale figures shared by the Perth Business Chamber.

What comes next for diners

Anyone planning a visit should check the City of Perth website for the updated heater map before heading out, since some laneways close to foot traffic after 11pm. Early evenings remain the busiest, so reserving through the venue app or calling ahead avoids the 7pm rush near the Swan River foreshore. Warmer layers still matter, yet the new setup means fewer people need to choose between staying home or heading indoors only.