FAQ
What is the Local Planning Scheme?
The Local Planning Scheme sets out the rules for development in the City. Every local government is required to have a scheme which forms the basis for all planning decisions. At a basic level, the scheme sets out the different land uses allowed, establishes standards around the scale and quality of development and helps plan for the City’s growth. |
Why is the Local Planning Scheme changing?
The City is required to review its town planning scheme on a regular basis, with the current Scheme (LPS21) now exceeding ten years of age, and no longer compliant with the state planning framework.
The new scheme (LPS22) will align with the state framework and streamline development standards to make the Scheme easier to understand and implement. It will also provide development certainty for the community as we strengthen protections for the values that make the City such a special place to live and work.
What does it mean for me?
For most people living and working in the City, the changes to the Scheme will not impact them directly. Some landowners will see the zoning of their property change and/or changes in how they can develop or use their property.
Where a landowner is directly impacted by a change to the Scheme, they will be notified by the City to inform them of the change, the reason for the change, what it means and how they can make a submission to the City.
How can I have my say?
Subject to the City receiving permission from the Minister for Planning, it is intended to advertise LPS22 in late 2025. The new Scheme will be advertised for a minimum of three months, during which time the City will undertake a detailed public engagement process to keep the community informed of all changes proposed, including drop-in sessions around the City, media releases, and updates on social media to name a few.
All landowners in the City, regardless of whether they are directly impacted, will be notified by mail when the new Scheme is open for consultation with details of how they can make a submission.
How long will the process take?
Following the three-month consultation period, the City will review the submissions received and make any changes to LPS22 where considered appropriate and necessary. The updated Scheme will then be presented to Council for approval.
Subject to Council approval, the final decision maker is the WA Minister for Planning. It is anticipated that approval by the Minister will occur in late 2026.