Dear Data.govt.nz Team, I am writing to request access to comprehensive business-related bylaw data across New Zealand's council regions. For obvious regional reasons there is significant variation in how this information is presented and accessed across different council websites. Business Context: There is a critical need for accessible, standardized information about regional business bylaws. This standardization would provide essential clarity and confidence for new sole traders, business owners, and partnerships. A templated approach showing bylaw variations across regions would significantly enhance business planning and compliance. Regional Variations Currently Observed: 1. Food and Hospitality Licenses: - Food registration certificates vary by region - Food truck permits have different restrictions by area - Food stall requirements change between councils - Verification processes differ across regions 2. Alcohol Management: - Different compliance monitoring systems - Varying alcohol management strategies - Local alcohol policies differ by region - Different licensing zones and restrictions 3. Public Space Usage: - Outdoor seating permits vary by council - Parklet regulations differ - Sandwich board rules vary by location - Sign and poster regulations change by district 4. Entertainment and Gaming: - Different gambling consent processes - Varying amusement device permit requirements - Health license variations - Different monitoring systems Data Requirements: To ensure maximum utility, we request the data in the following format: ```json { "region": { "council_name": "", "bylaws": { "food_and_hospitality": { "certificates": [], "permits": [], "restrictions": {}, "fees": {} }, "alcohol_management": { "licenses": [], "policies": {}, "zones": {}, "monitoring": {} }, "public_space": { "permits": [], "regulations": {}, "fees": {} }, "entertainment_gaming": { "licenses": [], "requirements": {}, "monitoring": {} }, "last_updated": "timestamp" }, "templates": { "application_forms": [], "guidelines": [], "fee_structures": {} } } } ``` Specifically, I am seeking consolidated information on: 1. Certificates, Licenses and Permits for: - Food business operations (registration, verification, trucks, stalls) - Alcohol-related businesses - Public space usage (seating, parklets, signage) - Entertainment venues - Health-related businesses - Gambling establishments - Amusement facilities 2. Associated Information: - Application processes - Fee structures - Compliance requirements - Monitoring systems - Regional variations - Renewal procedures - Local restrictions 3. Supporting Documentation: - Application forms - Guidelines - Local policies - Contact information - Appeal processes - Inspection requirements Technical Requirements: - REST API endpoints - Regular data updates - Version control - Change notification system - Bulk download capabilities - API documentation - Authentication methods - Rate limiting information

This data would greatly benefit:
- New business owners
- Existing businesses expanding to new regions
- Business advisors and consultants
- Regulatory compliance officers
- Multi-region operators
- Industry associations
- Business development agencies

Developing a comprehensive business service that will help streamline compliance understanding and requirements across different council regions in New Zealand, accounting for both national standards and local variations in licensing and permits. This standardized approach will significantly improve business planning and regulatory compliance across regions.