Lockboxes to be banned from public infrastructure across City of Sydney

Lockboxes widely used by Airbnb hosts will be banned from public infrastructure in Sydney’s city centre from next year.

The City of Sydney announced on Wednesday that lockboxes attached to council-owned assets will be removed from April 1.

The crackdown will apply to lockboxes attached to poles, street signs, fences and railings, trees and tree guards, bike racks and bicycle stands, as well as other public infrastructure and community assets.

Owners will have up to 28 days to claim their lockboxes after they are removed, before they may be disposed of.

Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the lockboxes could pose safety risks and damage public property.

“Lockboxes on our infrastructure are unsightly and can create safety risks like trip hazards or obstruction,” she said.

“They can interfere with our ability to maintain City of Sydney assets, and they can damage the things they are chained to, we’ve even had an instance of one being drilled into a street tree.

“These amenities are there for everyone to use, not as part of a business operation for individuals. There are several alternatives lockbox owners can use.”

The council said lockboxes could also pose security risks by potentially allowing unauthorised access or through the sharing of access codes.

Lockboxes are commonly used by short-term rental hosts, including those listing properties on Airbnb, to store keys and allow guests to check themselves in without the host being present.

Airbnb Australia and New Zealand said hosts were expected to comply with the new rules.

“Airbnb hosts have a range of options for welcoming guests, and are expected to comply with local laws and regulations,” a spokesperson told 7NEWS.com.au.

“Lockboxes are often used by many people beyond short-term rentals, such as for bikes, spare keys, tradespeople, cleaners and family access.”

Lockboxes can still be installed on private property, an option recommended by the council.