How long does it take for a rezoning to be completed?

The time taken to complete a rezoning can vary depending on the circumstances with the rezoning. Once approved by Council, the planning proposal is forwarded to the Department of Planning and Infrastructure for gateway determination.

A gateway determination is issued by the Minister for Planning and will include directions in relation to

• whether the planning proposal should proceed (with or without variation)
• the community consultation required
• the time frames which the various stages of the rezoning submission are to be completed in.

The rezoning is complete when it has been published in the Government Gazette.

Can I rezone my land?

A request can be made to Council to rezone land. Council is not required to support a rezoning submission if it does not meet the objectives of any plans or policies which have been adopted by Council.

Rezoning proposals are generally supported by Council if it can be demonstrated that

• there is an anomaly or error
• the land can not be reasonably developed or used under the existing zone and
• development of the land in the proposed zone would improve the amenity of the area and provide public benefit.

Alternatives to rezoning should be investigated fully before requesting a zoning change. Rezonings are time consuming and expensive for both the applicant and Council. If you intend to submit a rezoning request you will also need the required documents and must pay the relevant fees.

It is strongly recommended that prior to submitting a rezoning request you discuss your proposal with Council’s planning staff. Council’s Strategic Planners can be contacted on 4974 2000.

Should a Town Planning consultant be used?

Rezoning submissions involve a complex process and require specialised knowledge. It is recommended that a qualified town planning consultant be used to ensure that submissions are comprehensive and complete. A list of town planners can be found in the yellow pages and through the Planning Institute of Australia.

What are the fees and charges associated with a rezoning submission?

The fees and charges for rezoning and LEP amendments can be found in Council’s List of fees and charges. The fees are provided in two stages; stage A and stage B. Stage A fees are to be paid with the initial application. Council planners will then undertake an initial analysis of the proposal and if the proposed rezoning is supported by Council a final planning proposal will be prepared for the Department of Planning and Infrsatructure. If the proposed rezoning receives gateway determination to proceed from the Department of Planning and Infrastructure stage B fees will then be charged. Additional fees may be charged depending on assessment requirements.

If my request for rezoning is refused will the fees be refunded?

No, the initial stage A application fee cannot be refunded because Council has allocated time and resources to assessing the request. If the request is not supported prior to or at the gateway determination the stage B fees are not required to be paid.
Payment of rezoning fees does not guarantee the rezoning will proceed, be supported by Council planners or that the desired outcome will occur.

Further questions

If you have any further inquiries Council's Strategic Planning staff can be contacted on 4974 2000.