Higher Density Residential Developments

What is higher density residential development?

Higher density residential development includes housing such as townhouses, apartments and mixed use developments with dwellings above commercial spaces.

In the Devonport municipality, this generally includes:

Medium density Townhouses, terraces and apartment style dwellings of one to three storeys
High density Apartment style development of four storeys or more

Higher density housing provides opportunities for more people to live close to services, employment, public transport and community facilities, particularly in and around inner Devonport.

Why higher density in inner Devonport?

Council recognises that accommodating population growth, changing housing needs and addressing housing supply pressures requires a mix of housing types and densities.

Higher density residential development in suitable locations can help to:

  • Increase housing choice and diversity
  • Support a compact and efficient urban form
  • Strengthen activity and vibrancy in and around the CBD
  • Make better use of existing infrastructure, services and transport networks

Encouraging higher density housing in appropriate locations follows the policy position of Council's Greater Devonport Residential Growth Strategy 2021 to 2041 and aligns with Council's strategic direction for Devonport's growth, which includes supporting the role of the CBD and surrounding areas as key residential and employment hubs.

Where can higher density housing occur?

Under the Tasmanian Planning Scheme – Devonport, opportunities for higher density residential development are not limited to residential zones.

Depending on the site, surrounding context and design response, higher density housing may be supported within the following zones:

  • General Residential Zone
  • Inner Residential Zone
  • Central Business Zone
  • General Business Zone
  • Urban Mixed Use Zone
  • Local Business Zone

The applicable zone standards, overlays and any constraints specific to the site will determine what is permissible and how a proposal is assessed under the Tasmanian Planning Scheme.

Council has generally supported higher density housing outcomes where proposals:

  • Appropriately respond to the surrounding built form and character
  • Provide good residential amenity
  • Manage impacts on neighbouring properties
  • Demonstrate compliance with, or appropriately address, the requirements of the Planning Scheme
Each proposal is assessed on its merits.

What is the development assessment pathway?

Most higher density residential projects follow a similar pathway, though the exact requirements of the Planning Scheme will vary depending on the location, scale and complexity of the proposal.

  1. 1
    Understand the planning controls

    Identify the zoning of the site, along with any overlays and applicable standards under the Tasmanian Planning Scheme. Further information can be found at PlanBuild Tasmania using the Property Enquiry tool.

  2. 2
    Develop an initial concept

    Prepare a design that responds to the site, surrounding uses and context, and considers matters such as height, setbacks, parking, access and amenity.

  3. 3
    Planning approval

    Lodge a planning application where required. The proposal will be assessed against the Planning Scheme, including any relevant performance criteria.

  4. 4
    Building and plumbing approvals

    Once a planning permit is issued, progress the relevant building and plumbing permits.

  5. 5
    Construction and completion

    Construct the development and complete certification and occupancy requirements.

Council recognises that not every step will apply to every project and that higher density developments can vary significantly in scale, form and complexity.

How can Council help?

Early discussions with a Council planner are strongly encouraged, particularly when testing feasibility, considering design options and confirming how the Planning Scheme applies to a site and the development proposed.

An early conversation with a planner can help to:

  • Identify key planning considerations and constraints upfront
  • Clarify applicable standards and assessment pathways
  • Flag potential issues early, before detailed design work is undertaken
  • Reduce the risk of avoidable redesign or delays later in the process

Book a Planner Appointment

If you're considering a higher density housing project in Devonport, a planner can help you understand the planning requirements and identify any key considerations early in the process.

Book an Appointment

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