- Since 2015, there have been significant changes to the planning system in Tasmania.
- The main change has been the adoption of the Tasmanian Planning Scheme (TPS).
Overview
Prior to these changes, each local government developed their own planning scheme. These were created at different times and had different rules. As a result, Tasmania had more than 30 sets of rules about land use and development.
The TPS gives a common and consistent set of rules for the whole state. The intention was to create a fairer and more efficient planning system by delivering greater consistency for decision making.
How was this achieved?
In 2015, the Land Use and Planning Approvals Act (LUPAA) was amended to create the framework for the TPS. This was followed by the preparation of the State Planning Provisions (the SPPs), which included substantial consultation and advice from the independent Tasmanian Planning Commission (the Commission). The SPPs were made by the Minister on 22 February 2016, in accordance with s.27(1)(b) of LUPAA and formally came into effect on 2 March 2017.
The SPPs are the common and consistent set of rules that all local governments apply to their land area. The SPPs were a blend of provisions from the existing planning schemes; they were not drafted from scratch.
Each council is responsible for applying the SPPs to their land through their Local Provisions Schedule (LPS). Only when the LPS is approved by the TPC does the TPS come into operation in that area.
Process
The TPS first came into effect in Burnie in July 2020. Since then, the approval of LPSs in other councils has progressively brought the TPS into effect. This process is nearing completion.
A council prepares its LPS with community consultation. The decision on whether the LPS is approved rests with the Commission, following the consideration of submissions and other information from public hearings.
Respecting local character
The Tasmanian Government recognises the diversity in local councils. The TPS includes options for local councils to introduce particular purpose zones (PPZs), specific area plans (SAPs) and site-specific qualifications (SSQs). This is for unique or special circumstances.
