A planning scheme guides the way land and buildings are used and developed for a council area. It is a legal document prepared by council under the Sustainable Planning Act (2009).

A planning scheme identifies how land should be used, and what type of development can go where. It is like an instruction manual for how land use and development can be coordinated for the council area.

This helps protect the amenity and quality of life for residents, encourages new growth and looks after areas of environmental significance.

What does a planning scheme do?

• It outlines the desired outcomes for land use and development
• Identifies preferred locations for future land uses
• Identifies what infrastructure is needed for the future
• Identifies area and places to be protected, such as heritage buildings and good quality agricultural land
• Regulates the way land, buildings and structures are used
• States when a development approval is or is not required
• Outlines the standards for new development, such as building heights, car parking, landscaping and noise levels

What can’t a planning scheme do?

• Change the requirements, decisions or decision-making processes of the state government 
• Change or remove existing development that has been lawfully created – the planning scheme only deals with future development
• Deal with matters that are not development related, such as animal registration, boundary fences and social gatherings