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Getting started with a Planning Permit

Planning rules and zones

Depending on what planning rules and zones apply to the property, a Planning Permit may be required for proposals such as subdivision, building, alterations, and changes of use. A Planning Application is the first step in the development process. 

Building, plumbing and other approvals may be required after a Planning Permit has been granted. These ensure that the work you intend to undertake complies with Building Regulations. For information about Building Regulations Link to Building Page. 

Council operates under the Tasmanian Planning Scheme and your development will fall into one of five classifications: 

  • Exempt 
  • No permit required 
  • Permitted 
  • Discretionary 
  • Prohibited

Before you apply for a Planning Permit, discuss your proposal with one of Council’s Planning staff so you are fully aware of what is required. Council’s Planning Officers are available to assist via email, over the phone, via video calls or face to face with an appointment during Council’s opening hours. 

To submit an enquiry with a planner please email: [email protected]  

To book an appointment phone Council on (03) 6424 0511

Start your property enquiry with PlanBuild Tasmania

For all property enquiries head to PlanBuild Tasmania, a website created by the Tasmanian Government.

Phase one of PlanBuild is now live for public use. The enquiry service allows anyone to enter an address in the portal to see what planning zones and codes apply to a property. A property report can be generated which includes maps, details of the planning zone, codes and other information that affect the selected property.

For Devonport properties (we fall under the Tasmanian Planning Scheme) PlanBuild Tasmania provides a comprehensive Guided Enquiry service, including identifying planning, building and plumbing rules that may apply to a proposed project.

People will be able to work through a series of questions on their proposed project resulting in information on:

  • who to consult (e.g. local council, Heritage Tasmania)
  • who can do the work (e.g. a licensed builder)
  • what to apply for (e.g. a permit).

After completing an enquiry if the person has additional questions or wants to request advice from a council, this can be lodged online using PlanBuild Tasmania.

Click on on the below link to visit the PlanBuild Tasmania website.

Pre-lodgement advice

Council’s Planning staff are happy to provide pre-lodgement advice and comment on any draft plans prior to submitting your application. Please note that it is always a good idea to have the address, Property ID (PID) and/or Title details for a property ready, as this information will help us quickly identify the land you are interested in. 

Application process

To apply for a Planning Permit, you must lodge an application with Council. An application form needs to be filled in and submitted with plans of what is proposed and supporting documentation. A checklist of mandatory documents and information is provided as part of the Planning Permit Application Form. Payment of the applicable fee will be required prior to assessment of the application commencing; however, Council are happy to provide pre-lodgement advice free of charge. 

If your application is straightforward and, for example, involves a change of use with little structural alterations to the building, you may not need professional assistance. In many cases though, it is wise to get professional assistance with the application, especially where detailed drawings and/or site analysis is needed. 

Before you apply for a Planning Permit, discuss your proposal with one of Council’s Planning Officers so you are fully aware of what is required. They are available to assist via email, over the phone, via video calls or face to face with an appointment during Council’s opening hours. 

To submit an enquiry with a planner please email: [email protected]  or to book an appointment phone Council on
(03)
6424 05