FAQs

Planning and Regulatory Services Response to Frequently Asked Questions

The following responses to Frequently Asked Questions provide answers to a wide range of planning and development matters relevant to the Ipswich Local Government Area. For more information on any question or answer outlined below, you can contact Council’s Planning and Regulatory Services Department during business hours (8am to 4.30pm) on (07) 3810 6888, via email plandev@ipswich.qld.gov.au or in person on the Ground Floor, 1 Nicholas Street, Ipswich.

FAQs Index

Ipswich Planning Scheme

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Legislation

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Property Information

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Common Development Enquiry Fact Sheets

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Development Applications

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Public Notification for Impact Assessable Applications

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Building and Development Compliance

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Other Development Matters

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Subdivision Plans

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Heavy Vehicle Parking

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Infrastructure Contributions

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Heritage

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Naming & Street Numbers

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Vegetation

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Other Matters

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Ipswich Planning Scheme

Why does Council have a planning scheme?

Planning schemes are prepared by local governments to provide an integrated planning policy for the future growth and development within a local government area.  Planning schemes perform a range of functions including –

  • Providing a strategic framework that guides development into the future;
  • Manages, facilitates and regulates change by detailing the outcomes sought in relation to certain parts of the local government area;
  • Allocates land for different types of land uses and major infrastructure;
  • Identifies areas or places that are valuable features or constrain the use of land; and
  • Identifies the types of development that may be suitable for an area and those that are unlikely to be supported.

Council has prepared a draft new planning scheme, Ipswich Plan 2024 which is now available for public consultation from 15 May to 16 July 2023.  Further information in relation to the new planning scheme is available here.

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What is the Ipswich Planning Scheme?

The Ipswich Planning Scheme contains the framework for the management of development within the Ipswich Area.  It identifies areas for different types of development and provides a strategic direction for the location of infrastructure and different types of land uses (e.g. housing, shops, industries) within the Local Government Area.  The Ipswich Planning Scheme divides the Ipswich Local Government Area into 8 localities-

  • Urban Area
  • City Centre
  • Regionally Significant Business Enterprise and Industry Areas
  • Amberley
  • Rosewood
  • Township Areas
  • Rural Areas
  • Springfield

Each locality is further divided into Zones and in some cases, Sub Areas and Precincts, which all provide the intent for development within that particular area, and identify consistent and inconsistent development, as well as the relevant levels of assessment for different uses.

The planning scheme also provides a secondary organisational layer called Overlays, which are based on special attributes of land that need to be protected, or that may constrain development. There are two (2) types of overlays - character places overlays and development constraints overlays.  The Ipswich Planning Scheme mapping is available to be viewed in electronic format through the Ipswich City Planning Scheme Interactive Mapping portal.

Other key aspects of the Ipswich Planning Scheme include Planning Scheme Policies, Implementation Guidelines and Fact Sheets (which provide addition guidance on a range of planning scheme matters), the Local Government Infrastructure Plan (LGIP) which sets out the strategic direction for infrastructure within the Local Government Area, and the Adopted Infrastructure Charges Resolution (No.1) 2022 and associated infrastructure charging framework.

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Legislation

What is the main planning legislation in Queensland?

Council’s planning is undertaken in the context of a hierarchy of State government planning instruments, including the Planning Act 2016 and associated regulation and statutory instruments, the State Planning Policy and the broad strategic framework set by the South East Queensland Regional Plan. These State planning instruments provide the statutory basis for preparing local government planning schemes and the regulation and assessment of development proposals.

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How can I view the Ipswich Planning Scheme?

The Ipswich Planning Scheme is available to be viewed as a pdf document online, while the associated mapping is available to be viewed using the Ipswich City Planning Scheme Interactive Mapping portal. Alternatively, copies of the planning scheme can be purchased.

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What are the key matters affecting residential lot sizes in Ipswich?

There are a number of factors that influence and affect residential lot sizes within Ipswich. One of the key drivers is the density targets identified in the South East Queensland Regional Plan that are necessary to accommodate the predicted population within the South East Queensland region. Additionally, there are a number of other factors that locally affect lot sizes. Refer to Fact Sheet No. 8 – Residential Lot Sizes of the Ipswich Planning Scheme for more information.

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Property Information

How do I find out if I can develop a property?

The ability to develop a property for a particular purpose can be influenced by a myriad of factors.  If you are not experienced in property development, it would be prudent to engage development professionals to act on your behalf, and assist you to navigate the legislative pathway to development approval.  Ipswich City Council and the QLD State Government provide access to key planning documents and tools at www.ipswichplanning.com.au and https://planning.dsdmip.qld.gov.au/ which may assist, including Council’s Development.i and the Ipswich City Planning Scheme Interactive Mapping portal.

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How do I find out the zoning for a property?

The zone of a property can be ascertained by using the Ipswich City Planning Scheme Interactive Mapping portal.  Simply type in a current Property Address, and search results will be returned showing the Address, Zoning Information and Planning Scheme Overlays.  The Ipswich Planning Scheme layers can be used to provide further information.

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How do I find out what can be developed within a particular zone?

In the Ipswich Planning Scheme, each Zone lists particular uses, use classes and development categories which are consistent, consistent if of a type and scale appropriate for the prevailing nature of the area and the particular circumstances of the site and its surrounds, or inconsistent. The relevant category of assessment (exempt, self assessable, code assessable or impact assessable) is also identified within the zone code.  In all instances, the Properties may also be affected by a development constraint, and in some instances this may increase the level of assessment.

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How can I find out if a property is affected by a development constraint (such as flooding or mining)?

Development Constraint Overlays affecting a property can be ascertained by using the Ipswich City Planning Scheme Interactive Mapping portal. Simply type in a current Property Address, and search results will be returned showing the Address, Zoning Information and Planning Scheme Overlays. The Ipswich Planning Scheme layers can be used to provide further information. More information on specific development constraints can be found in Part 11 – Overlays of the Ipswich Planning Scheme.

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What is Council’s role in relation to Mining and Key Resource Areas?

The Queensland Government is responsible for approving and regulating mining activities. The Ipswich Planning Scheme identifies areas that are affected by Mining, which are generally as a result of historic underground or open cut mining within the Local Government Area, and Key Resource Areas, which the State Government has identified as areas of particular significance in relation to a specific resource and/or future mining. Through its development assessment function, Council seeks to avoid conflicts between mining and other land uses, particularly residential uses. Further information can be found in Fact Sheet 1 – Mining and Key Resource Areas of the Ipswich Planning Scheme.

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What flood regulations apply to development in Ipswich?

The Ipswich Planning Scheme, particularly Part 11 – Overlays, establishes the 1 in 20 development line, the adopted flood regulation line, and urban catchment flow paths.

The adopted flood regulation line is based on the historic 1974 flood level, the historic 2011 flood level or the modelled 1 in 100 flood level.

The 1 in 20 development line is based on a long standing flood regulation line established following the 1974 flood, that applied to the former Ipswich City Council area prior to its amalgamation with the former Moreton Shire.

Urban catchment flow paths are indicative only and require further detailed assessment as part of a development application to precisely determine the flood level and extent

Flood affected areas are depicted in 2 ways on the overlay maps—

a. Unbroken lines – representing ‘known’ constraints as determined by a technical report, or study or an actual flood event; and

b. Broken lines – indicative and subject to further detailed assessment as part of a development application.

In some cases, further information will need to be submitted to the local government, such as a flood assessment, for consideration as part of the development process.

On 5 May 2017, the Brisbane River Catchment Flood Study was released by the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA). The flood study area includes parts of the Brisbane River catchment, with a focus on flooding events downstream of Wivenhoe Dam including the Brisbane River, Lockyer Creek and the Bremer River system.  The contents of the flood study are being used to inform the preparation of the new planning scheme.

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How do I find out the extent to which a property is flood affected?

Ipswich City Council provides a Flood Map information search tool which you can use to determine the extent of some historic flooding that occurred on a specific property or locality, such as the 1974 and 2011 floods.

The planning scheme flooding overlays, including the 1 in 20 development line, the adopted flood regulation line and urban catchment flow paths, can be viewed by using the Ipswich City Planning Scheme Interactive Mapping portal. Simply type in a current Property Address, and search results will be returned showing the Address, Zoning Information and Planning Scheme Overlays.  The Ipswich Planning Scheme layers can be used to provide further information.

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How do I find out what development applications and approvals exist on a property?

You can access application data and documentation through Development.i and mapping information through the Ipswich City Planning Scheme Interactive Mapping portal. Your search results will show the current and former town planning applications that have been lodged over a particular property, dating back to 1 January 2005. For more detailed information, there are a range of plumbing, building and town planning searches that you can request. More information regarding these searches, including the fees payable, is available on council’s website. For payment options, refer to Planning & Development Fee Payment available on council's website.

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How do I find out if there is an easement on a property?

For information regarding easements on a particular property, you will need to contact the Queensland Government, which holds all information on titles and property in Queensland.

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Development Applications

What is the development assessment process in Queensland?

Every development application must go through a standard process from lodgement to decision. This ensures all applications are assessed with the right information, by the right people, and follow the same process.

The process is set out in a statutory instrument called the Development Assessment Rules (or DA Rules).

There are five key parts to the formal DA process - application, referral, information request, public notification, and decision. Depending on the development being applied for, the required steps in each part may vary. Not all parts will apply to all development applications – for example, only impact-assessable applications and applications involving a variation request require public notification.

Throughout the process notices are exchanged between assessment manager and applicant. This ensures the application tracks smoothly through the system.

Before the process begins, and after it finishes, there is:

  • pre-lodgement — voluntary but advisable
  • appealing a decision — optional.

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What is the State's role in development assessment?

You can find out more about the State’s role in development assessment here.

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I am new to development. What do I need to know to get started?

The ability to develop a property for a particular purpose can be influenced by a myriad of factors.  If you are not experienced in property development, it would be prudent to engage development professionals to act on your behalf, and assist you to navigate the legislative pathway to development approval.  Ipswich City Council and the QLD State Government provide access to key planning documents and tools at www.ipswichplanning.com.au and https://planning.dsdmip.qld.gov.au/ which may assist you, including Council’s Development.i and the Ipswich City Planning Scheme Interactive Mapping portal.

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What is a development application?

Development applications are the legislative mechanism of receiving approval for development on a property. Development means carrying out building work, plumbing or drainage work, operational work, reconfiguring a lot, or making a material change of use of premises.  Undertaking development may or may not require a development application, depending on the activity, zone, overlays etc. Development may be exempt, self-assessable, code assessable or impact assessable.  The Planning Regulation may also make development prohibited, accepted or assessable.

Every development application must go through a standard process from lodgement to decision. This ensures all applications are assessed with the right information, by the right people, and follow the same process.

The process is set out in a statutory instrument called the Development Assessment Rules (or DA Rules).

There are five key parts to the formal DA process - application, referral, information request, public notification, and decision. Depending on the development being applied for, the required steps in each part may vary. Not all parts will apply to all development applications – for example, only impact-assessable applications and applications involving a variation request require public notification.

Throughout the process notices are exchanged between assessment manager and applicant. This ensures the application tracks smoothly through the system.

Before the process begins, and after it finishes, there is:

  • pre-lodgement — voluntary but advisable
  • appealing a decision — optional.

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Do I need to lodge a development application if I want to undertake development on a property?

Aspects of development include:

  • A material change of use
  • Reconfiguration of a lot
  • Operational work, and
  • Building work.

In general, development is accepted, unless otherwise specified in the Planning Regulation, or where a planning scheme makes the development assessable rather than accepted.

The Ipswich Planning Scheme identifies development which is exempt, self assessable, code assessable and impact assessable. The Planning Regulation may also make development prohibited, accepted or assessable. From a planning scheme perspective, to determine whether you need to lodge an application for the development you wish to undertake, you need to determine the zone that is applicable to your property and any overlays that apply.  You can use the Ipswich Planning Scheme to determine what can be developed in a particular zone. For example, in the relevant zone code the development categories will be identified as consistent or inconsistent and as exempt, self-assessable, code assessable or impact assessable.  If a particular development requires code or impact assessment, you will be required to lodge a development application.  The overlays code applies in addition to the zone code, and may ‘bump’ the level of assessment for a particular development category to code or impact assessment, even if it is nominated as exempt or self-assessable in the relevant zone code. The zone and any applicable overlays for a property can be ascertained by using the Ipswich City Planning Scheme Interactive Mapping portal. Simply type in a current Property Address, and search results will be returned showing the Address, Zoning Information and Planning Scheme Overlays. The Ipswich Planning Scheme layers can be used to provide further information.

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Where can I get assistance in preparing a development application?

To receive assistance or advice in relation to development or preparing a development application, you should contact a consulting development professional, such as a town planner or cadastral surveyor.

You can also obtain information on development applications by contacting Council’s Planning and Regulatory Services Department via email plandev@ipswich.qld.gov.au or via the following form. Council also offers a free pre-lodgement development advice service.

As Council has a statutory role as the assessment manager for most development applications, the advice and assistance that can be provided by Council officers is limited to the development application requirements applying to a particular property and proposal (as opposed to commercial feasibility, site selection, development costs etc).

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Is it necessary to discuss an application with a Council officer prior to lodging a development application?

It is recommended that you engage with Council prior to lodging a development application to ensure that you are aware of the relevant Ipswich Planning Scheme provisions that are applicable to the development, and any information required to be lodged with the application.  Preliminary pre-lodgement advice is free of charge and can be provided over the telephone, via email or for particularly complex matters, in a formal pre-lodgement meeting.

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Do I need to make an appointment if I wish to have a pre-lodgement meeting with Council’s planning staff?

Yes, development proponents are encouraged to discuss their intentions with Council prior to lodgement, especially for more complex applications. To request a pre-lodgement meeting, please contact us via our online request form.  This will allow the relevant Council officers to review your proposal and ensure that appropriate Council personnel (planning, engineering and environment staff) can be invited to the meeting to give feedback.

If your enquiry is more general related, our town planning staff are also available to assist with enquiries via email plandev@ipswich.qld.gov.au or via the following form. For more complex enquiries it is highly recommended that you make a pre-lodgement appointment.

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Do I need to attend a pre-lodgement meeting in person?

No, you do not need to attend a prelodgement meeting in person. Pre-lodgement meetings can also be held via exchange of written correspondence or as a Microsoft Teams appointment.

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What is the difference between a code assessable and impact assessable development application?

There are two categories of assessment for assessable development, namely code and impact assessment.

A code assessment is an assessment that must be carried out only—

  1. Against the assessment benchmarks in a categorising instrument for the development (i.e. the Ipswich Planning Scheme); and
  2. Having regard to any matters prescribed by regulation.

An impact assessment is an assessment that—

  1. Must be carried out—
    1. Against the assessment benchmarks in a categorising instrument for the development (i.e. the Ipswich Planning Scheme)
    2. Having regard to any matters prescribed by regulation; and
  2. May be carried out against, or having regard to, any other relevant matter, other than a person’s personal circumstances, financial or otherwise.

Impact assessable applications also require public notification to be undertaken.

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What information is needed to accompany a development application?

When preparing a development application, the applicant must meet certain criteria to ensure it is properly made. These stipulations mainly relate to:

The state sets out the minimum required information in the DA forms.

If critical information is missing from the application, the applicant will be asked to provide this information before the assessment begins.

It is recommended that you discuss additional supporting information requirements with Council prior to lodging your application.

Ipswich City Council also has a  Development Application Lodgement Form to streamline the application lodgement process. Applicants are encouraged to provide a completed copy of this form with their application.

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How much will it cost me to submit a development application?

The cost of the development application will depend upon the type and scale of the proposed development. The costs of submitting development applications are specified in Council’s Register of Fees and Charges for the relevant financial year. Application fees do not include the costs associated with preparing the development application (such as supporting information and consultants’ fees) and, in the event that Council requires a specialist study reviewed by an independent consultant, this additional cost must also be paid by the applicant.

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How can I lodge a development application?

Council’s preference is that development applications are lodged electronically via email to plandev@ipswich.qld.gov.au. Council also maintains a Large File Transfer program called Hightail for the sending and receipt of large documents. If you are unable to submit your application electronically, a hard copy of the application can be submitted in person on the Ground Floor, 1 Nicholas Street, Ipswich, or posted to Ipswich City Council at PO Box 191, Ipswich QLD 4305.

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What is a referral agency and why are they important?

Sometimes a development application may require additional assessment. In these cases, the application is considered by a referral agency. The DA Rules establish the process and requirements for how a referral agency receives, assesses and gives their response to a development application.

A referral agency is an agency outside Council, such as a State Government agency or an infrastructure provider, who has jurisdiction (as prescribed in Schedule 10 of the Planning Regulation 2017) to comment on a development application, in relation to the aspects of that application that are relevant to the agency.

All responses by a referral agency must be considered by the assessment manager in making their decision. Some referral agencies can direct assessment managers, not just advise them.

It is normally the applicant’s responsibility to refer an application to the appropriate referral agencies. A referral agency may require a fee for the assessment of the proposed development. Please contact the referral agency directly regarding this matter.

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Public Notification for Impact Assessable Applications

Will I need to notify my neighbours when I lodge a development application?

If your application is impact assessable, you will be required to undertake public notification during the application process. The public notification process includes notifying adjoining owners. Part 4 of the DA Rules outlines the requirements for undertaking public notification.  In addition, the State Government’s Fact Sheet: Public notification signage under the Planning Act 2016 provides instructions for how to meet the signage requirements under the Planning Act 2016.

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A development application is currently undergoing Public Notification.  How do I make a submission about the application?

If an application is undergoing a formal Public Notification process, the application is impact assessable.  For a submission about a development application to be considered a “properly made submission”, it must be made to (and received by) Council during the notification period. The submission must:

  • include the name and residential or business address of each person who made the submission;
  • include the grounds of the submission and the facts and circumstances relied on in support of the grounds;
  • be made to the assessment manager; and
  • be in writing and signed by each person who made the submission.

If the submission is made on behalf of a number of submitters, it must also include a postal or email address that can be used for correspondence relating to the submission.

The submission can be made online via Council's Development Application Submission Form, sent via email to plandev@ipswich.qld.gov.au, lodged in person on the Ground Floor, 1 Nicholas Street, Ipswich or posted to Ipswich City Council, PO Box 191, Ipswich QLD 4305.

If an application is ‘code assessable’, there is no formal public notification process or associated appeal rights.  Notwithstanding, a submission can still be considered in the assessment of the application.

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Who can make a submission about a development application?

Anyone can make a submission to Council regarding a development application that is undergoing public notification.

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How long will it take for a development application to be processed?

The timeframe for processing development applications will vary depending on the type and complexity of the application, any referral agencies, and whether the application is impact assessable and requires public notification. Some simple applications will be eligible for Council’s Fast Track Application process. Eligibility for Fast Track applications is determined by Council after an initial review of the application lodgement.  Fast Track applications are determined within five (5) business days of the receipt of all relevant material required for the assessment of the application.

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How can I find out about development applications in my neighbourhood?

Development.i allows users to search for development applications using a location search, application search or map search.  Development.i provides access to past and current application details and basic property information for the Ipswich City Council area so people can stay informed about what is happening in their area, gather information to help prepare applications, make a submission or comment on an application. For further information about searching ‘How to use' Development.i, videos are available here.

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If I lodge a submission in relation to a development application will my submission be available for public viewing?

Yes, submissions are not confidential and any submission will be published online when it is received, however contact details contained within the submission will be redacted prior to publishing including any contact details contained in the submission.  The content of the submission will remain on Development.i, and it is a requirement under the Planning Act 2016 that the decision notice for the application must include the name, residential or business address, and electronic address of each principal submitter.

If you do not supply your name and contact details with the submission, it cannot be considered a properly made submission.  If your submission is not properly made, you will not have appeal rights in relation to the decision or be advised when the submitter appeal period commences, though Council will still consider the contents of the submission in the assessment of the application.

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If I am not happy with a development decision that is made by Council what can I do about it?

Council publishes online a list of reasons for making a decision on a development application (the Statement of Reasons). This Statement of Reasons can be accessed via an application search on Development.i. If you are not happy with a development decision made by Council, it is advisable to first view Council’s reasons for making the decision. When reviewing the decision, please note that in making a determination on a development application, Council will balance a range of considerations, seeking the best overall outcome for the community. If you are still concerned about the decision on the development application, you can contact the assessing officer assigned to the application to ask further questions.

In the event you lodged a properly made submission within the Public Notification period for an impact assessable development application, you will be notified by Council when the ‘submitter appeal period’ commences. Once this period has commenced, you can lodge an appeal against the decision made by Council to the Planning and Environment Court, in accordance with the requirements identified in the Planning Act 2016.

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Building and Development Compliance

What development approvals are required for building work, land use and other development?

Development approvals are required for most property uses other than lawful residential occupation.  This also applies to changes in the type or scale of a property use. More information about land uses and other development that require an approval can be found here. The correct approvals must be obtained before commencing most building and development work. More information about building work that requires an approval can be found on Council's website here

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How do I comply with a development approval?

All development approvals have conditions that must be complied with. Building work is subject to a building permit issued by a building certifier that regulates the work during the project. In many cases, the building certifier is a private consultant who is not regulated by Council.

All other development such as land use and earthworks require development approvals that are regulated by Council’s Development Planning Branch. Many of the conditions included in a planning approval remain in force after the construction and during the relevant use. An applicant may submit a request for a Compliance Certificate to confirm whether the relevant conditions of a development approval have been complied with.

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How do I make a complaint about building work, land use and other development?

Council enforces laws that regulate certain property use and building work. Complaints about these matters are investigated by Council’s Development Compliance section. More detailed information about Council’s powers on regulating property use and development can be found here

If you are experiencing disruption or impacts or are worried about possible damage or harm from property use, building work or development, you can make a complaint to Council.

More detailed information on how Council handles complaints about property use, building work and development can be found here.

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Other Development Matters

Are all development approvals available online?

All development applications for development assessable against the Ipswich Planning Scheme, where lodged after 1 January 2005, are available online through Development.i. To obtain a copy of a development approval that is not available online, please contact Council’s Planning and Regulatory Services Department during business hours (8am to 4.30pm) on (07) 3810 6888, via email plandev@ipswich.qld.gov.au, in person on the Ground Floor, 1 Nicholas Street, Ipswich, or by completing the online Property Search Form.  Note that a fee is payable to obtain a copy of a development approval. For payment options, refer to Planning & Development Fee Payment available on council's website.

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How do I know if my development has the relevant approvals?

If you are purchasing a property that includes a Commercial or Business use, or any use other than a single residential use, it is recommended that you also apply for a Planning and Development Certificate. There are three (3) types of Planning and Development Certificates and the content of each certificate is provided in the Planning and Development Certificate Fact Sheet.

For example, a Limited Planning and Development Certificate may provide you with details of any warning notices or compliance actions that Council has instigated in relation to any illegal building works or land uses that may have been reported to Council and will also provide details of any outstanding infrastructure charges that may be payable with respect to a development approval issued for the subject property.

It is recommended that you seek independent legal advice to determine the most appropriate search or planning and development certificate to undertake as part of your due diligence prior to purchasing a property.

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Do I need an approval under the Ipswich Planning Scheme for a one-off, irregular or infrequent activity (e.g. helicopter landing, promotional activities, fete, wedding, party, circus, rodeo, etc)?

A development approval is not required for one-off, irregular or infrequent activities such as helicopter landings, promotional activities, fetes, weddings, parties, circuses and rodeos where it is determined by Council that there is unlikely to be any significant and/or detrimental impacts on the amenity of nearby land.  There may however be requirements (e.g. relating to events, public health or food hygiene), which need to be addressed or adhered to in respect of a local law or subordinate local law.

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Do I need to get Council approval before placing advertising signage within a property?

If a proposed advertising device complies with Schedule 9 – Exempt Advertising Devices, or meets the criteria for temporary advertising devices outlined in Subordinate Local Law (Amending) Subordinate Local Law No. 3.1  (Commercial Licensing) 2019, a development application is not required. In all other circumstances, a development application will most likely be required, and will be assessed against the requirements of the Advertising Devices Code of the Ipswich Planning Scheme.

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Can I request Council inspect my development to confirm compliance with the conditions of development approval prior to commencement of use?

Prior to the commencement of a use, and in accordance with the conditions of the relevant development permit, it is the owner, occupier and/or operator of the proposed use that has responsibility for ensuring compliance with development conditions.

If you wish to determine whether your development is compliant with the conditions of the development approval you can submit a request for a Development Compliance Certificate along with payment of the relevant fee by completing the following form, Planning and Development Certificates/Searches and Development Compliance Certificates Form.

Please note such applications are accepted only from the original developer, builder or development owner within 24 months of completion of the development. If the development is not compliant at the time of inspection, a Compliance Certificate will not be issued, and a refund or partial refund will not be applicable.

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Can I sell dwellings/units on the same title separately?

It is not possible to sell individual dwellings/units that are located on the same title.  Should you seek to individually sell units on the same title, you will need to ensure the units are ‘subdivided’ under a Building Format Plan. The Building Format Plan will need to be submitted to Council for review and approval, prior to formal lodgement of the document with the Title Office.

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Subdivision Plans

How do I lodge a subdivision plan with Council?

Subdivision plans and associated supporting documentation can be lodged electronically via email to plandev@ipswich.qld.gov.au, in person on the Ground Floor, 1 Nicholas Street, Ipswich, or posted to Ipswich City Council, PO Box 191, Ipswich QLD 4305.  Council’s Plan of Subdivision Lodgement Form must accompany each request for the signing of a subdivision plan.  Council also maintains a Large File Transfer program called Hightail for the sending and receipt of large documents.

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How long will it take for a subdivision plan to be signed by Council?

The standard timeframe for the assessment of a subdivision plan is twenty (20) business days, where all conditions of all approvals have been complied with and the required documentation submitted. Notwithstanding, Council strives to reduce this timeframe by assessing appropriate subdivision plans through a ‘Fast Track’ assessment process within five (5) business days. Signing of subdivision plan requests for minor or simple reconfigurations that do not require an operational works approval may be considered for ‘Fast Track’ assessment.

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How much will it cost to submit a subdivision plan to Council?

The costs of submitting an application for the signing of a subdivision plan is specified in Council’s Register of Fees and Charges for the relevant financial year. Refer specifically to section 4.5.1 – Signing of Subdivision Plans.

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Heavy Vehicle Parking

Do I need to get a Heavy Vehicle Parking Permit to park my vehicle at my property?

If your vehicle is defined as a ‘Heavy Vehicle’, you will require a Heavy Vehicle Parking Permit to park your vehicle on your property. Refer to Council’s Heavy Vehicle and Truck Parking Fact Sheet for details regarding heavy vehicle specifications. If you intend to park more than one (1) heavy vehicle on your property, you will need to submit a development application for General Industry (Truck Depot). If this is the case, you are encouraged to contact Council for pre-lodgement advice regarding the suitability of your proposal, as an application for General Industry (Truck Depot) is unlikely to be supported in a residential area.

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How do I get a Heavy Vehicle Parking Permit and how long does it last for?

To obtain a Heavy Vehicle Parking Permit, you will need to submit an application to Council. If a permit is granted, it is valid for the financial year. An application for renewal is required each financial year thereafter.  The costs of submitting an application for a Heavy Vehicle Parking Permit is specified in Council’s Register of Fees and Charges for the relevant financial year.

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What sort of Heavy Vehicle Parking conditions will apply to my permit?

Specific conditions in relation to the make/model of the vehicle, where the heavy vehicle is parked on the premises, the service/repair and maintenance activities on the premises, the storage of materials and loading and unloading of the heavy vehicle may apply. Please refer to Implementation Guideline 16 – Heavy Vehicle Parking and the Heavy Vehicle Parking – Factsheet for more information.

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Infrastructure Charges

What are infrastructure charges and what do these charges go towards?

Infrastructure charges are the charges levied on development for the demand placed on the local government trunk infrastructure networks. The current charges are specified in the Ipswich Adopted Infrastructure Charges Resolution (No.1) 2022. Council levies charges for trunk infrastructure networks for transport (roads), public parks and land for community facilities. Urban Utilities is responsible for water and sewerage infrastructure planning and charging under its Water Netserv Plan.

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What is the Local Government Infrastructure Plan (LGIP) and how can I view it?

The Local Government Infrastructure Plan (LGIP) is part of the Ipswich Planning Scheme and identifies the local government’s plans for trunk infrastructure that are necessary to service urban development at the desired standard of service in a coordinated, efficient and financially sustainable manner. The LGIP is contained in Part 13 of the Ipswich Planning Scheme. Alternatively, a hard copy of the Ipswich Planning Scheme can be viewed in person on the Ground Floor, 1 Nicholas Street, Ipswich.

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What is the Adopted Infrastructure Charges Resolution and how can I view it?

In accordance with the Planning Act 2016, a local government may, by resolution, adopt charges for providing trunk infrastructure for development. The adopted infrastructure charges can be set equal to, or below, the maximum adopted charge in the Planning Regulation 2017. The current charges are outlined in the Ipswich Adopted Infrastructure Charges Resolution (No.1) 2022.

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How can I pay my infrastructure charges?

Council only accepts payment for infrastructure charges by way of Bank Cheque, Cash or Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). Personal and/or company cheques will not be accepted as payment for developer contributions. For more information regarding payment options and details, contact Council on (07) 3810 6666 or email plandev@ipswich.qld.gov.au.

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Heritage

How can I tell if a property is heritage listed?

A property is ‘heritage listed’ if it is a local heritage listing or a state heritage listing.

Local
Schedule 2 – Character Places and Schedule 3 – Identified Places of Interest of the Ipswich Planning Scheme contain individual ‘local’ listings (character places).  Places listed in Schedule 2 – Character Places are formally protected. The ‘identified places of interest’ listed in Schedule 3 – Identified Places of Interest are not afforded statutory protection for demolition or removal but have been identified as sites where conservation is encouraged. The Ipswich Planning Scheme also includes Character Zones which include groupings of character places (e.g. ‘precinct listings’ and ‘heritage areas’).  The Ipswich City Planning Scheme Interactive Mapping portal can be used to determine whether a property is affected by a heritage listing or is located within a Character Zone.  Simply type in a current Property Address, and search results will be returned showing the Zoning Information and Planning Scheme Overlays.

State
A number of Ipswich buildings are on the Queensland Heritage Register, which is administered by the Department of Environment and Science and the Queensland Heritage Council. The online entry includes images, significance, history, a description and a Google map reference for each site on the State register. You can search the Queensland Heritage Register online.

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What is the difference between a local character listing and a State heritage listing?

A State heritage listing protects places that have importance or significance to the State. Under the Queensland Heritage Act 1992, heritage approval or an exemption certificate must be sought from the Queensland Heritage Council to develop or change a state registered place. Development applications lodged on properties affected by or in some cases adjoining a Queensland Heritage Place will require referral to the State Government as part of the application process. A local heritage listing protects places that have importance or significance to Ipswich. Local heritage protections in Ipswich are identified in  Schedule 2 – Character Places or  Schedule 3 – Identified Places of Interest of the  Ipswich Planning Scheme, or are located within a character zone of the  Ipswich Planning Scheme.

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Does the same level of protection apply to a dwelling or building in a Character Zone as they do to an individually listed place?

Yes, a pre-1946 dwelling or building in a character zone has the same level of protection as a place that is individually listed in Schedule 2 – Character Places.

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Can I use a character/heritage listed building for a different use to its original use?

Generally, the adaptive reuse of character places is supported where the use allows the retention of the heritage and character significance of the place, and the reuse maintains a scale, intensity and appearance that is consistent with the amenity and character of the surrounding area. Implementation Guideline No. 26 - Adaptive Reuse of Character Places, Identified Places of Interest and Pre-1946 Buildings Located in Character Zones outlines the circumstances when character/heritage listed buildings can be used for a different use to its original use.

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How does the Ipswich Planning Scheme help to conserve Ipswich’s heritage buildings?

The Ipswich Planning Scheme protects places of local cultural heritage significance. Provisions in the Ipswich Planning Scheme concentrate on providing necessary safeguards relating to conserving the culturally significant fabric of the City. The Character Code in the Ipswich Planning Scheme provides a broad spectrum of information and diagrams to assist in conserving these important places.

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What assistance or advice can Council provide with respect to my character dwelling or building?

Council operates a Heritage Adviser Service to assist owners of historic Ipswich buildings. The Heritage Adviser is an experienced conservation architect who provides free conservation and architectural advice to owners of historic properties. The Heritage Adviser normally undertakes visits at the place in question to maximise convenience to residents and developers. To book an appointment with Council’s Heritage Adviser, please contact Council during business hours (8am to 4.30pm) on (07) 3810 6888, or request a meeting online.

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Naming & Street Numbers

Council has responsibility under the Local Government Act 2009 to number and name roads. Council also has powers under its Local Laws with regards to the use and display of the correct street number by the owner of the land.

The display of an incorrect number may cause serious consequences should an emergency services vehicle be called and not be capable of locating the correct property.

More detailed information on Street Numbering is available on Street Numbering Fact Sheet.

Who is responsible for street naming and house numbering?

Ipswich City Council is responsible for street naming and the allocation of house numbering. To request street naming and/or house numbering, please send an email to plandev@ipswich.qld.gov.au outlining the request. Street numbering is assessed in accordance with the Australian/New Zealand Standard for Rural and Urban Addressing.

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I have purchased a corner block. Is it possible to change my address to the other street?

House numbers are allocated in accordance with the Australian/New Zealand Standard for Rural and Urban Addressing.  In some circumstances, it is possible to change your address to the other street.  An investigation would need to be undertaken to ascertain the suitability of the proposed address in relation to the primary entrance to the property, and emergency service identification and access to the property. Please contact Council’s Development Compliance section on (07) 3810 6888 for more information.

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What is the naming process for roads, parks or bridges?

An application for naming of a road, park or bridge is to be submitted in writing. The application should be accompanied by information regarding the background/history of the proposed name and a duly completed copy of Council’s Naming Request Form.  Once an application for a road, park or bridge naming is submitted to Council, it will be considered by Council’s Development Compliance section. Duplicate names close to the site and the relevance of the proposed name to the area are key criteria against which proposed names are assessed.  Once a request has been considered and assessed, the applicant will be notified in writing of the approved name for the road, park or bridge. Council is responsible for naming both public and private roads.

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Can I find out the history behind my road naming?

It may be possible to find out the history behind your street or road’s name.  Where possible, Council officers will provide you with the history/background on the naming, and the date of the road naming approval. For more information, please contact Council’s Planning and Regulatory Services Department during business hours (8am to 4.30pm) on (07) 3810 6888 or via email plandev@ipswich.qld.gov.au.

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Energex and Telstra do not recognise my address to connect services to my dwelling. How do I confirm a street address?

Council officers are able to confirm your property’s official street address. For more information, please contact Council’s Planning and Regulatory Services Department during business hours (8am to 4.30pm) on (07) 3810 6888 or via email plandev@ipswich.qld.gov.au.

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Vegetation

How does Council protect important vegetation as part of development in Ipswich?

The Ipswich Planning Scheme has identified certain zones where important vegetation is required to be retained.  Within these zones, development applications must be assessed against the Vegetation Management Code to conserve and appropriately manage areas of native vegetation and their associated wildlife habitats and linkages.  Some vegetation is also afforded heritage protection, as outlined in Schedule 2 – Character Places. In accordance with Implementation Guideline 19 – Vegetation Retention in the Ipswich Planning Scheme, native vegetation within urban areas that cannot be retained as part of the development, is to be offset to achieve nil net loss of vegetation within the general locality.  The nil net loss may take the form of replanting on site in areas such as linear parks or a monetary contribution towards broader Council initiatives for vegetation planting or retention.

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How does Council protect natural waterways as part of development in Ipswich?

Many of the waterways within Ipswich are protected from development by their inclusion in the Recreation Zone as Linear Parks. Primarily, Linear Parks are designed to serve a connectivity/linkage function along riparian corridors.  The Vegetation Management Code and Reconfiguring a Lot Code in the Ipswich Planning Scheme also include provisions to protect natural waterways. These codes require vegetation within riparian areas to be conserved and appropriately managed, as well as management of stormwater flows to ensure any disturbance to natural riparian systems is minimised and contributes positively to the environmental enhancement of catchment areas.

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What approvals do I need to clear vegetation on my property?

Approval to clear vegetation on your property may depend on factors such as whether or not the vegetation has a cultural heritage listing, covenant requirements and/or applicable conditions of a development approval such as an Environment Protection Zone or Building Location Envelope. Restrictions on clearing of native vegetation are also dependent upon the zone within which the subject property is located and the physical attributes of the site such as slope and proximity to waterways. For more information, please contact Council’s Planning and Regulatory Services Department during business hours (8am to 4.30pm) on (07) 3810 6888 or via email plandev@ipswich.qld.gov.au.

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Other Matters

Does my neighbour need to contribute towards the cost of our dividing fence?

Generally, neighbours are required to contribute equally to building and maintaining a sufficient dividing fence between their properties. If one owner wants to construct or carry out work on a fence beyond the standard for a sufficient dividing fence, that owner is generally liable for the additional costs. Your legal rights concerning a fence between your property and your neighbour’s property are covered by the Neighbourhood Disputes (Dividing Fences and Trees) Act 2011. More information about dividing fences is available on the State Government’s website.

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Who can assist with a neighbourhood dispute in relation to a dividing fence?

Whenever possible, you should solve any dispute directly with your neighbour. It is always better to reach an agreement with your neighbour and avoid the possibility (and costs) of a legal dispute. The State Government has developed a number of tips for resolving fencing disputes. Mediation offers an alternative way of settling disputes without the need for legal action. Mediation and dispute resolution is cheaper, easier and quicker than going to a court or tribunal.

The Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) can help resolve neighbourhood fence disputes valued up to $25,000. QCAT can also make a legally enforceable decision on the matter. Going to QCAT should be seen as a last resort. It’s much better if you can resolve the problem together and stay on good terms with your neighbour.

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Who is responsible for gaming and liquor licensing in Queensland?

Gaming (such as poker machines) and liquor licensing is regulated by the State Government (Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation) and not Council.

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Can I display signs and goods on the footpath?

Council’s Local Laws permit the erection of a range of temporary signs on footpath areas without an approval, provided that particular standards are achieved (such as location, length of time, size and number of signs). Council’s Subordinate Local Law (Amending) Subordinate Local Law No. 3.1 (Commercial Licensing) 2019 sets outs the relevant provisions. Council’s Local Laws generally require a licence for any goods to be displayed on the footpath.

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