(02) 6836 5888
mail@cobar.nsw.gov.au
Council controls how most land in our area is used, protected, or developed. This includes things like where new roads or buildings should go, or how many houses can be built in a certain area. Development also includes activities like holding a big event, running a business or demolishing a building.
In New South Wales, the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure sets rules that apply to all councils in the state. They also create regional plans and provide guidelines for councils. See Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021.
When Council makes decisions about Development Applications, we compare what’s proposed with the planning rules that apply to that particular piece of land.
If there is any difference between State and local rules, the State rules apply.
The Cobar Local Environmental Plan 2012 (LEP) is the primary legal document guiding land use and development in the Local Government Area (LGA). It includes zoning maps, land use tables, and development standards.
It can be viewed here.
Some proposals need review by Transport for NSW when they are next to a State Road, involve major traffic increases, or require new or upgraded road access. In these cases, Council must refer the Development Application to TfNSW and cannot approve the proposal until TfNSW has provided statutory advice or concurrence. This helps ensure road safety, traffic flow, and the protection of transport infrastructure.
Linked here is information of TfNSW role and what is needed to be provided in cases involving TfNSW.
Council in conjunction with the Department of Planning has prepared a Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS) which was adopted on 28 May 2020 at the Ordinary Meeting of Council. This document will set out the 20-year vision for land-use in the local area, the special character and values that are to be preserved and how change will be managed into the future.
The statements should be read in conjunction with relevant State and Regional planning policies and plans, which will continue to guide planning decisions and the preparation of development controls in local environmental plans. The LSPS can be downloaded and/or viewed here.Â
The Far West Regional Plan 2036 is a 20 year blueprint for the future of Western NSW and can be downloaded and/or viewed here.
Zoning regulations determine how land can be used, such as for residential, commercial, or industrial purposes. These regulations are outlined in Local Environmental Plans (LEPs) and State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPPs). Refer your zone to Cobar LEP using the Land Use Table.
You can check the zoning for your property using the NSW Planning Portal’s Spatial Viewer.
Listed and linked below are the most prominent zones in the Cobar Shire Council area. You will find out what type of building works are permissible with or without development consent.Â
