We have developed guidelines for how we investigate unauthorised dwellings.
Unauthorised Dwelling Guidelines 2022(PDF, 189KB)
The guideline is designed to help inform the community about the three planning pathways available where unauthorised dwellings are identified.
These pathways are guided by legislation and planning controls to ensure:
The guidelines support the Enforcement Policy 2020.
A single unapproved dwelling (or converted farm building), unapproved dual occupancy or secondary dwelling. For unapproved Multiple Occupancy or other residential accommodation refer to Pathway 2.
Where land has no significant natural constraints and the use is capable of approval and complies with LEP and DCP provisions:
Land does not have a dwelling entitlement and contains:
Requirements for this pathway include:
Land may or may not have a Dwelling entitlement and contains:
In circumstances where the land does not meet the strategic merit test for an LEP amendment, does not have the ability to accommodate appropriate effluent disposal and is non compliant with LEP and DCP provisions.
Enforcement action in accordance with the Enforcement Policy 2020 will be taken. This could involve Orders to demolish/restore a the building to the previously approved use as appropriate. Orders may be subject to appeal in the Land and Environment Court.
If you are concerned about unauthorised development or would like to discuss the pathways, contact us using our online Report It form.