FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions

What Does a Town Planner Do?

 

A Town Planning Consultant is a specialised professional who provides expert advice and services related to urban and regional planning. Town Planners assist individuals, businesses, government agencies, and community groups in navigating the complexities of land use, development approvals, and urban design.
Their expertise spans a wide range of services, including:

• Development Planning – Guiding projects through the approval process.

• Land Use Assessment – Evaluating the suitability of land for specific purposes.

• Community Engagement – Ensuring developments align with local needs and expectations.

• Urban Design – Enhancing the functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability of urban spaces.

• Development Management – Overseeing the implementation of planning projects to ensure compliance with regulations.

   

When Do You Need a Town Planner?

Consulting with a Town Planner is essential when undertaking any activity related to land use, development, or changes to the built environment. Their expertise is invaluable in ensuring your project meets regulatory requirements, aligns with community interests, and supports long-term planning goals.
Whether you're a property owner, developer, government body, or community organisation, a Town Planner helps you make informed decisions and navigate the planning process efficiently and effectively.

What is a Material Change of Use (MCU)?
A Material Change of Use (MCU) refers to a significant alteration in the way land, buildings, or structures are used. It is a key concept in town planning and development regulations, used to govern changes in land use. An MCU is typically required whenever the existing use of a property is changed or when the nature of the development alters how the property interacts with its surroundings.
Examples of a Material Change of Use include:

• Converting a single dwelling lot into a dual occupancy lot

• Changing a commercial building into a residential property

• Converting a residential dwelling into a business or office space

These changes may require formal approval from local planning authorities to ensure compliance with zoning regulations, community needs, and long-term planning goals.

How Long Does a Material Change of Use Take?

The time required to obtain approval for a Material Change of Use (MCU) application can vary based on several factors, including:

• Complexity of the proposed change

• Specific requirements of the local planning authority

• Community consultation and feedback

• Efficiency of the approval process

In general, the approval timeline can range from several weeks to several months, depending on the nature of the development and the associated planning processes.

How Much Does a Material Change of Use Cost?

The cost of submitting a Material Change of Use (MCU) application can vary considerably based on:

• The complexity of the proposed change

• The location and jurisdiction of the property

• The type of development being proposed

• Specific local government requirements

Typical costs associated with an MCU application may include:

• Town Planning Consultation Fees

• Building Design and Drafting Services

• Council Application Fees

• Referral Agency Fees

• Legal and Professional Services

• Infrastructure Contributions and associated construction costs

It is important to engage an experienced town planner early in the process to accurately assess the costs and streamline the approval process.

What is Reconfiguration of a Lot (ROL)?

Reconfiguration of a Lot refers to the process of subdividing, amalgamating, or realigning the boundaries of land parcels to facilitate efficient land use and development. In Queensland, this term encompasses several activities, including subdivision, amalgamation, access easement, and boundary realignment, all of which are regulated by local planning authorities to ensure compliance with relevant planning standards and regulations.

What is Subdivision?

Subdivision is the process of dividing a single parcel of land into multiple smaller lots, each with its own boundaries and title. This is often done to create individual, saleable lots for residential, commercial, industrial, or mixed-use development. Subdivision is a common and effective practice in both urban and rural planning, promoting more efficient use of land and enabling growth in local economies.

How Do I Subdivide My Land?

Subdividing land involves dividing a larger parcel into two or more smaller lots, each of which is registered with its own title. The subdivision process requires compliance with local zoning regulations, development guidelines, and the approval process of the local planning authority.
Before proceeding, a development application (DA) must be lodged, and a detailed assessment will be conducted to ensure compliance with the planning scheme, infrastructure requirements, and other regulatory standards.

Is Subdivision Profitable?

Subdivision can be a profitable investment strategy, particularly if the land is in a prime location with strong market demand. However, profitability depends on factors such as:

• Location of the property

• Market conditions

• Development and regulatory costs

• Demand for subdivided lots

While subdivision can generate significant returns, it also carries risks. To maximize profitability, it is essential to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study, assess potential costs, and work with experts, including land surveyors, town planners, and financial consultants to ensure that your project is financially viable and well-executed.

How Much Does Subdivision Cost?

The cost of subdividing land in Queensland varies based on several factors, including:

• Location of the property

• Size and complexity of the subdivision

• Regulatory requirements

• Infrastructure needs

Key costs involved in subdivision may include:

• Town planning consultation

• Land surveying and drafting

• Development application (DA) fees

• Referral agency fees

• Infrastructure charges

• Legal and administrative costs

• Construction costs (e.g., roads, drainage, utilities)

• Real estate agency fees (for sale of subdivided lots)

It’s important to account for all of these expenses to assess the full cost of the subdivision project before proceeding.

How Long Does Subdivision Take?

The timeline for completing a subdivision project can vary widely depending on the project’s complexity, local planning regulations, and the efficiency of the approval process. The typical subdivision process includes the following stages:

1. Feasibility and Planning

2. Land Surveying and Design

3. Development Application (DA) Submission

4. Council Assessment

5. Referral and Public Notification (if applicable)

6. Council Decision

7. Infrastructure Development

8. Legal Processes (e.g., plan sealing and title registration)

Depending on the specifics, the entire process can take several months to over a year, with each stage requiring careful management to avoid delays.

What is Boundary Realignment?

Boundary Realignment involves adjusting the boundaries between two or more adjoining properties without creating new lots. This process is distinct from subdivision, which creates new titles and lots. Boundary realignment is typically used to adjust land boundaries for purposes such as improving land use, providing better access, or meeting planning requirements, without changing the overall number of lots.