Environmental licences and permits
Changed process for development applications
As of the 18 December the Sustainable Planning Act has replaced the Integrated Planning Act. Development applications lodged on or after 18 December 2009 must use the approved forms under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009.
This website is being progressively updated to reflect this change.
References to the Integrated Planning Act 1997 should be read, if the context allows, as a reference to the Sustainable Planning Act 2009.
Development applications lodged on or after 18 December 2009 must use the approved forms under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009.
About environmental licences and permits
These webpages provide online information on how to obtain an environmental licence or permit from the department.
By selecting from the menu categories on the left of screen you will be directed to application forms, information sheets and guidelines relevant to a range of activities that require an environmental licence or permit.
This makes it easy for customers to do business with the department by offering a range of new and improved customer support services, including a Statewide contact through Permit and Licence Management on 1300 130 372 for all your licensing and permitting enquiries.
If you are planning a project or activity that could impact on the environment, it is important to first determine whether you will need a licence or permit. Browse the main categories on this website to find the information that best applies to your enquiry or call Permit and Licence Management for assistance.
If you need the department to make a decision that has significant environmental risks, often involving multiple licences or permits, you will be encouraged to participate in a pre-design/pre-lodgement process.
In the future, this website will be expanded to enable users to get more detailed information online including geographical mapping data and project reports on the status of decision-making processes.
Sustainable Planning Act
If the activity includes development assessable under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009, for example construction in a coastal management district, an environmentally relevant activity, development of a privately owned heritage-registered place or development within a Wetland Protection Area, an approval will be required. An application for a development permit must be made under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009.
The department has an advice agency role for development that may impact on wetlands, Conservation Estate managed by the department and Heritage Registered Places. Further information can be obtained by referring to the Advice Agency referrals under SPA/IDAS.
Forms are available by contacting this department, your local government customer service office, or can be found on the Sustainable Planning Act website.
Last updated 20 October 2010