The planning system addresses a range of environmental, social and economic issues.
NSW planning controls are prepared by both state and local government. This means there is no one simple document that defines all development for a parcel of land in NSW.
The overarching legislation for planning in NSW is the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act. This legislation sets the ground rules – powers for Council officers, requirements for submitting a Development Application, what needs to be considered when an officer assesses an application and more.
The following is a summary of each of the elements of the planning system that regulate land use and development for most development in the Snowy Valleys Council area.
If you have any questions please contact our Customer Service Team:
The Local Environmental Plan (LEP) is the legal planning document, which comprises documents and associated maps for Snowy Valleys Local Government Area and provides the rules and guidelines for the control of land (both private and public) through zoning. It aims to reduce possible conflict between adjoining land uses and ensures there is adequate land to meet the diverse needs of a viable region.
The LEP aims to reinforce the importance of the existing business districts, provide for a variety of residential uses across the city, as well as control development in the outer rural areas. In addition, the LEP fosters a considered approach to infrastructure, transport and community planning, as well as anticipating social and economic trends and the need to protect the environment.
Snowy Valleys Council is still operating with the former Tumbarumba Shire Council and Tumut Shire Council LEPs, which are available to view here:
Tumbarumba LEP 2010
Tumut LEP 2012
Development Control Plans (DCPs) contain guidelines affecting development proposals within the region. They provide detailed guidelines for developers as well as others involved and interested in the development of the Snowy Valleys region.
The aim of the DCP is to encourage and facilitate a high standard of design, minimise land use conflicts and clearly set out the processes, procedures and responsibilities of applicants and Council. It also seeks to protect heritage significance, encourage innovative design and ensure developments are economically, socially and environmentally sustainable.
Development Applications are assessed on their merits using the relevant DCP and LEP together with State Environmental Planning Policies.
Snowy Valleys Development Control Plan 2019 came into force on 18 November 2019.
Click here to download a copy of the Snowy Valleys DCP(PDF, 8MB)
SEPPs are planning policies that are written by the NSW Department of Planning and Environment and generally apply across NSW. The following list are the main SEPPs used in our local council area, however, other SEPPs may apply:
For a full list of SEPPs visit the NSW Planning & Environment website