FAQs

A planning proposal is a document that explains the intent and justification for a proposed change to a local environmental plan (LEP).

An LEP provides a framework that guides planning decisions through land use zoning and development controls. Land use zoning determines how land can be used (for example, for housing, business, industry, or recreation) and development controls set guidelines such as the maximum building height allowed.

Changes to LEPs keep local planning controls up to date. The process of making and amending LEPs aims to make sure these changes are in keeping with broader strategies and deliver good planning outcomes.

Essentially, the preparation of a planning proposal is the first step in making a change to an LEP. Further information on the process for amending an LEP can be found on the NSW Government’s website.

The change in minimum lot area for dual occupancies applies to land in Zone R2 Low Density Residential. 

The objective of this planning proposal is to amend Coffs Harbour LEP 2013 to remove clause 4.1B of the Coffs Harbour Local Environmental Plan 2015.

No. A planning proposal is a document that proposes changes to planning controls (i.e. a change to a land use zone or control) in a local environmental plan. A development application is an application for approval to carry out development that is permitted under zoning or other controls in the LEP.

Further information on the development assessment process is provided on the City’s Website. 

A dual occupancy is two dwellings built on the one lot of land. They can be either attached to each other or detached.

The proposed change to the Coffs Harbour Local Environmental Plan 2015 (LEP 2015) is intended to facilitate development of more dual occupancies in Zone R2 Low Density Residential. This will increase the supply of smaller and more diverse dwellings in the Coffs Harbour local government area. It will also make more efficient use of serviced urban land close to facilities, education and employment. The proposed change to LEP 2015 is identified as an action in Council's adopted Affordable Housing Strategy. The proposed change to the City's Development Control Plan 2015 (DCP 2015) is intended to ensure good development outcomes and avoid impacts on surrounding properties, even where dual occupancies are developed on smaller lots.

The proposed amendment to the Coffs Harbour Development Control Plan 2015 provides that the density of a dual occupancy in Zone R2 Low Density Residential is to be no more than 1 dwelling per 350 square metres of site area. Therefore, a lot that is at least 700 square metres in area is required.