Heritage and development

What can I do to my property?

A heritage listing does not mean that properties or buildings cannot be modernised, altered, or developed. Changes may still be made but must have regard to the site’s heritage significance. Any new work must be undertaken in an appropriate or ‘sympathetic’ way.

Properties listed in Schedule 5 of Central Coast Local Environmental Plan 2022 (LEP) and Schedule 9 of State Environmental Planning Policy (Precincts - Regional) 2021 require Development Approval for any work including alterations, additions, and extensions. This is to ensure that development affecting heritage-listed properties within the area is properly managed. Owners of heritage items can also apply for ‘exemptions’ if the work is minor in nature or if it is for the maintenance of the heritage item. 

Development Applications

Any building work on or near a heritage site or within a conservation area requires Development Approval (or in some cases, an exemption from Council – see below). 

For more information on the Development application Process, see: 

• The Development Assessment Process | Central Coast Council
• See related Development Application information on Council’s website
• Contact Central Coast Council on (02) 4325 8222 or (02) 4350 5555, or via ask@centralcoast.nsw.gov.au 

Heritage Exemption Applications

Owners of heritage items and buildings within heritage conservation areas can apply for an 'exemption' application where the work is of a minor nature or is for the maintenance of the heritage item, or places within a heritage conservation area. 

This process helps simplify the management of heritage properties while safeguarding their heritage value. Written advice from Council confirming an exemption must be obtained prior to any works commencing. This is done through the lodgement of the Heritage Exemption Form. There is no fee for requesting heritage exemption advice.

Minor development might include:

1. Minor repairs using the same materials and finishes
2. Undertake property maintenance
3. Repainting surfaces using colours that are the same or in keeping with the heritage property or heritage conservation area, etc
4. Under certain circumstances the installation of solar panels (subject to certain location and criteria).

To seek an exemption: 

1. Check: Consider if your development constitutes ‘minor development’, as explained above.
2. Prepare documentation: Submission of comprehensive information with the request will assist in Council’s assessment of your proposal. At a minimum, a statement describing the proposed works and photographs must be supplied. Other information such as plans, schedule of colours, materials, construction details and tree location should be supplied if they are relevant to the proposed works.
3. Submit: To submit your request for heritage exemption, complete either the: 
   1. Heritage Exemption Form, or 
   2. If your site is in Gosford, use the Heritage Exemption Form - Gosford City Centre.
4. Council review: Following lodgement and a preliminary review of the proposal, Council may request further information to assist in the assessment before providing written advice. Council will endeavour to respond with advice within 21 days.