Overview
This stage occurs before a planning proposal is formally lodged.
It is used to:
- test whether a proposal has merit
- identify key planning, environmental and infrastructure issues early
- confirm if any studies are required
- reduce risk and delays later in the process.
Scoping is generally recommended for complex planning proposals and may be beneficial to confirm information requirements and key issues for standard planning proposals.
View module 1 in the Local Environmental Plan Making Guideline.
What happens at this stage
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Prepare a scoping report
A high-level document that outlines:
- the proposal and intended outcomes
- the site and context
- preliminary strategic merit
- key site-specific issues and constraints
- likely studies and investigations.
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Pre-lodgement meeting
Council (and where relevant the Department and agencies) meet with the proponent to:
- discuss the proposal
- identify required studies
- confirm potential risks
- assess whether the proposal may have merit.
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Receive written advice
Following the meeting, council provides advice outlining:
- recommended scope or changes
- planning proposal category (standard or complex)
- required studies and technical work
- consultation requirements
- preliminary view on merit.
Key considerations
When scoping a proposal, consider:
Strategic merit
- Is the proposal consistent with any applicable or draft regional and local plans?
- Does it align with the State land use priorities?
- Does it support identified growth, housing or employment needs?
Site specific and environmental considerations
- Are there environmental constraints (e.g. flooding, bushfire, contamination, biodiversity)?
- Is the site appropriate for the proposed land use?
- Can existing infrastructure and services support the proposal?
- Are there any critical risks that could prevent the proposal proceeding?
Further studies, assessment and consultation requirements
- What are the key issues requiring further investigation?
- What preliminary consultation may be required or has already been undertaken?
Community and place impacts
- How will the proposal affect surrounding areas?
- Are there potential social or economic impacts?
- Will it contribute positively to the local area and character?
Outputs
By the end of this stage, you should have:
- a clearly defined proposal scope
- confirmed study requirements
- an understanding of key risks and constraints
- preliminary advice on whether the proposal may have merit
- clarity on next steps and expectations.
Optional pathways to consider
Depending on the proposal, alternative approaches may be suitable:
Concurrent planning proposal and development application (DA)
Allows a planning proposal and DA to be prepared and assessed in parallel, enabling faster delivery if both are supported.
When it may apply
- Where rezoning and development are linked
- Where there is a desire to streamline timeframes.
Infrastructure-led or state-significant proposals
May involve additional coordination with state agencies or different assessment pathways due to scale or significance.
When it may apply
- Where major infrastructure is involved
- Where the proposal aligns with government priorities.
Alternative planning pathways
Includes pathways such as clause 4.6 variations or expedited amendments, depending on the nature of the proposal.
When it may apply
- Where a full LEP amendment may not be required
- Where issues can be addressed through other mechanisms.
Tips for success
- Keep information focused and proportionate to the proposal
- Engage early with council and relevant agencies
- Clearly demonstrate strategic alignment
- Identify and address potential constraints upfront
- Avoid over-detailing — detailed studies come later
Next steps
Once you have prepared the complete planning proposal and lodged via the Planning Portal to begin formal assessment:
Proceed to Module 2 – Planning Proposal.