Residents are being encouraged to comment on a new, consolidated set of planning rules, with the draft Local Environmental Plan (LEP) and draft Development Control Plan (DCP) now on public exhibition. The draft plans will replace multiple planning controls with a single, clear set of rules, making it easier for residents, property owners and developers to understand what applies and where.
A LEP is a state-government-mandated planning instrument that sets the legal rules for land development. The DCP supports the LEP and provides more detailed guidance for new development, including requirements for landscaping, car parking and privacy.
Northern Beaches Council is moving from four separate sets of LEPs and DCPs to a single comprehensive LEP and DCP covering the entire local government area. Mayor Sue Heins said the draft plans represent the final step in what has been years of planning and consulting with the community working towards a simpler and more consistent planning framework.
“These important documents will harmonise existing planning rules across the area and deliver more consistency in guiding future development on the Northern Beaches.
“Both documents recognise the unique characteristics of our neighbourhoods and will protect our precious environment while meeting our housing needs for the future.
“The community has already played a huge role in informing these documents providing feedback on various Planning our Sustainable Future projects over the past six years.
“Community input has been supported by comprehensive technical studies into local hazards, conservation areas, traffic and transport, employment, social infrastructure and the natural environment.
“For most residents, little will change; however, a small number of properties are proposed to be rezoned or subject to new requirements, particularly where environmental values are high. In these cases, some forms of development may be restricted to better protect sensitive areas. In the “deferred lands” of Oxford Falls Valley and Belrose North, the draft LEP introduces standard zoning in line with state planning requirements.
Mayor Heins encouraged residents, businesses and community groups to review the draft plans and to use the interactive map on Council’s website to see how the changes affect them. Submissions close on 30 August 2026.
“Community input is vital. I encourage residents to have their say at this important milestone and let us know if we got it right,” Mayor Heins said.
Together, the draft LEP and DCP seek to:
- Protect the environment, views and local heritage
- Respect and preserve local character
- Put housing in the right places to meet different needs
- Reduce urban heat and support resilient and sustainable development
- Protect jobs and employment areas
- Avoid development in hazardous and rural areas
- Create liveable communities with more trees, facilities and sustainable transport
Following public exhibition, Council will review all submissions to determine whether changes are required to the draft plans. The LEP will then be finalised and submitted to the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure for formal approval. The DCP will be adopted by Council once finalised. It is anticipated that both plans will commence in mid-2027.
To learn more or make a submission, visit: yoursay.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/LEP-DCP
Or call the LEP/DCP customer hotline on 8495 5034 by 30 August.