Rezoning Applications

Zoning is used to manage the different land uses and development types throughout the Sutherland Shire. Zoning patterns, which are shown on the zoning maps in SSLEP 2006 (Sutherland Shire Local Environmental Plan 2006), set out various types of zones for residential, commercial, employment, open space and special use activities.

For each zone, SSLEP 2006 specifies the types of development that may be carried out (with or without development consent from Council) and the types of development that are prohibited.

A rezoning is a change to the zone of a parcel of land. This can increase or decrease the range of permissible uses for a site or change the development controls that are applicable. Land can only be rezoned through a formal amendment to the LEP.

Applications to rezone land are generally not encouraged and should only be submitted in the following circumstances:

• Where land cannot be reasonably developed or used under the existing zoning, and
• Where development of land in accordance with the existing zone would not be in the public interest

The NSW Department of Planning has requested that amendments to existing Council LEPs be avoided, where possible, and rezonings be included as part of Standard Instrument LEPs.

The preparation of a Planning Proposal is the first step in making a LEP or an amendment to a LEP. A Planning Proposal is a document that explains the intended effect of, and justification for, a proposed LEP. Under the new legislation, Council must prepare and submit a Planning Proposal to the Department of Planning for consideration of an amendment to the LEP.

A Planning Proposal must include the following:

• A statement of objectives and intended outcomes of the proposal,
• An explanation of the provisions that are to be included in the proposal,
• A justification of the objectives and outcomes, including the process of how these are to be implemented,
• Maps containing the appropriate details, including land use zones, heritage areas and flood prone areas where applicable, and
• Details of the community consultation that will be undertaken.

Read the Guidelines for a Planning Proposal and talk to a Planner in council's Environmental Planning Unit prior to preparing an application. These officers can be contacted on 9710 0800 and can explain the process and discuss any issues that may be relevant to the specific proposal.

For more information regarding the process, costs and requirements for a rezoning application, please see the council policy Guidelines for Planning Proposals. When you are ready apply for a rezoning, please complete the Application for Planning Proposal.