Local planning and zoning

Local environmental plans (LEPs) are the main planning tool for shaping the future of communities and ensuring local development is done appropriately

LEPs provide a framework that guides planning decisions for local government areas through zoning and development controls.

Zoning determines how land can be used (for example, for housing, 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.

Resources

Local Environmental Plan Making Guideline (PDF, 10 MB)
Local Environmental Plan Making Guideline Attachment A (DOC, 6.9 MB)
Local Environmental Plan Making Guideline Attachment B (PDF, 219 KB)
Local Environmental Plan Making Guideline Attachment C (PDF, 119 KB)
NSW Planning Reform Action Plan – Frequently asked questions (PDF, 93 KB)

Bird's-eye view of Land corridor Welby St - North Road Eastwood, Sydney. Credit: NSW Department of Planning and Environment / Salty Dingo

Departmental support

Construction site in Sydney Metro North West, Showgrounds Precinct NSW. Credit: NSW Department of Planning and Environment / Adam Hollingworth

Making and amending LEPs

A male building certifier reads a housing guideline document. Credit: NSW Department of Planning and Environment / Christopher Walters

Strategic Planning Toolkit

Visit the NSW Planning Portal to:

track and review planning proposals
track the progress of your site compatibility certificate.