Other issues
Local disturbances
There are various types of anti-social behaviours the City of Sydney can investigate and act upon. The most common are bill postering, graffiti, and illegal dumping. We also respond as required to reports of vandalism and instances where people are living in squalor and hoarding.
After receiving complaints about car hoons disturbing locals in The Rocks we began closing a section of Hickson Road as a preventative measure. When we were advised that film crews sometimes disrupt residents we streamlined a complaints and feedback system.
Footpath hazards and maintenance
If you see a footpath near you that is in need of repair, you can report it to the City.
Damage to any footpaths and pavings should be reported, as well as any unwanted objects blocking the way.
You can report footpath hazards and maintenance required online.
Car hoons
A section of Hickson Road and George Street is closed between 10pm and 3am each Friday and Saturday night and on Sunday nights when a long weekend falls. This is to reduce anti-social behaviour by car hoons.
Authorised traffic, such as residents, legitimate visitors and taxis are permitted to drive north along Hickson Road past Pottinger Street on Friday and Saturday nights. See the map below for details.
All northbound motorists on George Street will be diverted onto Alfred Street near Circular Quay. Motorists can exit the restricted area via either route.
Police at The Rocks operate the road closures, which are reviewed every year.
Film crews
The City receives many requests from production companies seeking permission to make a film, television program or advertisement in the local area and we try to approve them to support the industry. Residents and business owners are of course our first priority and we do put conditions in place so that you won't be too inconvenienced.
When production companies are given a permit to set up on location they must post signs and notify nearby residents and businesses (in writing) as soon as possible before filming starts, in case we are notified of any concerns.
The film crew is asked to maintain safe pedestrian and vehicle access and "user pays" police officers are assigned to productions when access is restricted or modified. Occasionally, pedestrians, drivers and riders may be asked to pause for a few moments during the taping of a scene.
While some public parking spots may be taken up by the production company, the City strictly limits the amount granted in particular areas and closely monitors production footprints in neighbourhoods.
The final potential problem, especially for residents, is lighting. If production lights are shining into your windows, ask the location manager for fabric or a covering to block it out.
The City of Sydney expects production companies to be courteous and accommodating. If a film crew is rude or there is any sort of problem, raise it with the designated representative of the production company in the first instance. You'll find the details on the letter you received to notify you of the shoot. The representative may be the location manager (who will be on site) or someone in the production company office who can pass on your complaint to the crew.
Most production companies are very responsive to your feedback – they want to establish a positive relationship with the community – but if the issue is not resolved please contact us for advice before the shoot finishes.
Filming feedback
02 9265 9653 02 9265 9180filmingfeedback@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au
After hours contact: City Rangers on 02 9265 9333
Last updated: Friday, 24 May 2013
