No free camping on the Gold Coast
It is illegal to camp on Gold Coast beaches, roads and parks. Council officers patrol public areas 7 days a week and fines may be issued for illegal camping. Report illegal camping.
You can search online for legal holiday parks and camping grounds. We also offer safe and legal camping at our Tourist parks
For information on homelessness support, please visit Housing & homelessness
Licences for operators of camping areas and caravan parks
We regulate and monitor camping areas and caravan parks on the Gold Coast to make sure appropriate and adequate facilities are provided and that they are kept in a clean and hygienic condition.
You need a licence from us to operate a camping area or caravan park. You might also need development approval.
Licence needed for:
- camping ground
- caravan park
- temporary or semi-permanent accommodation for residential or recreational purposes, including occupying or sleeping in a tent, caravan or vehicle.
Note: This includes the use of semi-permanent accommodation on private land while being built on by the owner-builder or builder. You will need to submit a copy of the approved development permit with your application.
Licence not needed for:
- a child camping overnight in a tent on occupied residential premises
- premises on which scouts or guides camp overnight in a tent.
Licences are valid until the 31 August each year (except for temporary licences) and are renewed annually. There are no fees for a new licence or for licence renewal. For more information visit Permits & licensing renewals.
For more information, contact our City Standards team on 07 5667 5987.
Complying with regulations
You and your staff are responsible for complying with all requirements of the relevant legislation. Refer to Related information.
How to apply
Use this form to apply for a permanent, temporary or owner-builder camping area licence. No fees apply.
Before submitting your application, make sure your site has the appropriate development approval to prevent your application being delayed. Depending on the type, size and intended use of any permanent buildings and structures, building approval and certification from a building certifier may also be required.
For details on when other approvals such as building and plumbing may also be needed for a caravan, visit Development compliance.