Shz implementation guide for local councils and park authorities

Prepared by NaturismRE
Submitted by: Vincent Marty, Founder

Introduction

This implementation guide provides councils and park authorities with practical steps for creating Safe Health Zones and optional clothing optional wellbeing sections within existing parks, reserves, riverbanks and selected national park areas. The model is designed to be low cost, environmentally responsible and community friendly.

The guide focuses on clear boundaries, respectful zoning, minimal visual impact and safe public use, ensuring that SHZ integrate easily into existing public land without major infrastructure requirements.

Identifying suitable locations

Councils and land managers can identify SHZ locations by assessing:

availability of open green space
existing shade, trees and vegetation
areas that offer privacy through landforms or tree clusters
proximity to walking paths
community accessibility
minimal impact on high-traffic family areas

A section of a park or reserve can be designated without disrupting existing community uses.

Creating visual boundaries

To ensure comfort for all users, councils can introduce visual boundaries around the clothing optional section of an SHZ using simple measures such as:

edge shrubs and medium-height vegetation
tree planting to create natural screens
low wooden privacy structures
curved timber slat walls
natural landforms such as hills or rock clusters

These features maintain the natural aesthetic while offering discretion.

Signage and pathway adjustments

Clear and respectful signage should define:

the beginning and end of the optional naturist section
expected behaviour
voluntary participation
family-friendly standards
appropriate access points

Walking paths may be adjusted or gently redirected to pass around the clothing optional section. This ensures that access remains intentional and that park navigation is clear.

Shaded rest areas and wellbeing amenities

Councils may enhance SHZ usability by adding low-impact amenities, for example:

small shade shelters
seating or benches
simple mindfulness platforms
ground-level rest areas

These additions support comfort and accessibility without significant cost.

Privacy and comfort measures

Privacy can be increased through:

vegetation layers
screened rest areas
placement of natural barriers
buffer zones between SHZ and high-use park areas

These measures ensure respectful coexistence between naturist users and textile visitors.

Safety and conduct guidelines

To maintain a safe and respectful environment, councils should implement simple conduct guidelines that emphasise:

non-sexual, respectful behaviour
voluntary participation
appropriate sun safety
responsible use of the space
zero tolerance for harassment or inappropriate conduct

These guidelines match standard practices used in dog off-leash zones, skate parks and nature reserves.

Low cost and environmental sustainability

SHZ require minimal investment because they make use of:

existing tree lines
natural ground cover
public park facilities
simple landscaping adjustments
light-touch infrastructure

This approach supports environmentally sustainable planning while improving park usability for a wide range of visitors.

Monitoring and evaluation

Councils may conduct periodic reviews to assess:

public feedback
environmental impact
safety and usage patterns
demand for expansion or adjustment

A pilot phase allows councils to evaluate community response before extending the program.

Conclusion

This implementation guide provides a clear, practical method for councils and park authorities to establish Safe Health Zones and optional clothing optional sections within existing public spaces. The model is low cost, respectful, beneficial to community health and aligned with modern preventive health principles.

NaturismRE remains available to provide guidance, assessments and support for councils interested in piloting the SHZ model.