Development Applications

Development within the Shire is guided by the Planning and Development Act 2005, Planning and Development (Local Planning Schemes) Regulations 2015 and the Shire of Ashburton Local Planning Scheme No. 7.

The Shire has also developed a number of supporting policies to encourage orderly and proper planning within the unique character of the Shire.  Our Local Planning Scheme regulates land uses in the Shire.  

Our Local Planning Policies supplement the Local Planning Scheme and may outline development requirements or exemptions to development approvals.

 Development Requiring Planning Approval

The following are common items/areas that require planning approval in the Shire of Ashburton.

  • Development within or abutting any heritage places or precincts.
  • Variations to the Residential Design Codes (Refer to DPLH checklist for compliance - R-Code Design Compliance Checklist).
  • Variations to Local Planning Policies and the Shire of Ashburton Local Planning Scheme No. 7.
  • Development with a BAL rating of BAL-40 or BAL-FZ
  • Development within Commercial and Industrial zoned areas.
  • Development located within a Special Control Area (SCA) identified within Part 7 of Shire of Ashburton Local Planning Scheme No. 7

 

How do I apply for Planning Approval?

To apply for planning  approval from the Shire of Ashburton, a Development Application (DA) must be lodged with the Shire.

The Shire's Development Application Lodgement Guide and Development Application Checklist should be used to assist you in preparing your Development Application.

The following items must be lodged as part of your application:

 

Development Applications can be lodged in person over the counter at any of the Shire offices, electronically or by mail. Ensuring that all information is complete and correct at lodgement can reduce delays in the assessment of your development application.

If you are unsure about whether your development or land use will require a Development Application. Please contact the Town Planning Team at the Shire - (08) 9188 4444 or [email protected]