What is a planning scheme?

Local planning schemes are made under Part 5 of the Planning and Development Act 2005 which sets out the general objectives of schemes, the matters which may be addressed, and the requirements for review.

Where schemes involve the zoning or classification of land, they are required to reflect the Planning and Development (Local Planning Schemes) Regulations 2015. Importantly, there are some sections of the scheme which are 'deemed provisions' which cannot be changed.

Schemes include a variety of zones and accompanying statutory planning provisions which provide for control of land use and development. This combination reflects a set formula of land use possibilities and zoning arrangements, with the intent being that the formula achieves the aims of the scheme, which itself is derived from the strategic vision of the Local Planning Strategy.

Local Planning Scheme No. 5

The local planning scheme for the Shire is known as Local Planning Scheme No. 5 (the scheme) and regulates how land in the Shire is used and developed. It is comprised of scheme text and associated scheme maps.

The scheme regulates a number of planning functions including:

  • Setting aside land as reserves for public purposes,
  • Zoning land within the scheme area for the purposes defined in the scheme,
  • Controlling and guiding land use and development,
  • Setting out procedures for the assessment and determination of planning applications,
  • Making provisions for the administration and enforcement of the scheme, and
  • Addressing other matters set out in the Schedule 7 of the Planning and Development Act 2005.

To view the scheme text or maps, please see the following link.

Amendment

The first amendment to Local Planning Scheme No.5 was initiated by Council in November 2023 to assist in meeting the growing demand for child care services.

It was approved by the Minister for Planning on 20 May 2024, enabling Council to consider allowing Child Care Premises within existing and future residential areas.

Applications are at the discretion of Council, subject to advertising, and will be assessed against Local Planning Policy No. 4.

Local Planning Scheme No.5 Amendment No.1

Zoning

To check your zoning, please use Landgate's Locate Mapping System to access your zoning information.

This mapping system is interlinked with the State Government's register for zoning and stays up to date regularly so you can ensure the information you are getting is correct.

TIP: Ensure you have the following layer and sub-layers on:

  • Layer- 'Property and Planning'
    • Sublayer- 'Local Planning Scheme - Zones and Reserves (DPLH-071)'
    • Sublayer- 'Local Planning Scheme - R Codes (DPLH-070)'