Are you currently looking into zoning codes for potential building sites and aren’t sure what they mean? If so, you are far from alone. Even seasoned property developers need to do their homework. Zoning in the Northern Territory is incredibly complicated when you dig down to the details. Understanding land zoning and how it will impact on your build and investment is an important consideration. Get it right and you could be set for life – get it wrong and you are likely in for a world of stress.
Zoning Principles
In simple terms, zoning is designed with future predictions in mind. Those predictions apply to population growth and management, socioeconomics, and the environment. In broader terms, zoning is intended to preempt challenges that could arise from giving the green light to certain types of development in a particular zone. For instance, it doesn’t make sense to build a large number of family homes in an area that doesn’t have schools, malls, recreational facilities, or access to work opportunities.
Similarly, you are not likely to see large shopping centres cutting through areas of natural beauty that are protected by law. Preserving these areas is a concern that takes both environmental and population into account. While many of the zoning codes may appear to make little or no sense, large bodies of research have been carried out to manage predicted population growth and how it relates to the wider issue of sustainability.
Rate of Growth & NT Zoning
Believe it or not, the zoning codes in your area have been proven to control the rate of growth. The use of land and buildings is subject to legal permits that are integral to zoning codes. Let’s say that property developers could simply purchase land anywhere for any purpose. The landscape that you recognize and love would soon become dominated by undesirable businesses or buildings. Think of all the things that you don’t want where you live – now you probably have a better idea of the value of zoning codes.
There are too many specific zoning codes to cover here; however, they are generally categorised as follows:
- Commercial
- Industrial
- Mixed-Use
- Residential
- Agricultural
- Public Use
The unfortunate reality is that each state creates its own zoning codes, which is further complicated by the fact individual councils also use their own language. If you are new to the Northern Territory it is therefore important to recognise that zoning codes may not correspond with what you are used to. So, where does this leave you as a property developer or someone looking to build a new home? The good news is, the Northern Territory Government website provides guidance on relevant zoning codes.
Zoning Code Evolutions
The Northern Territory Planning Scheme is a large, on-going project that is designed to address the issues that lead to the need for zoning. Whenever you are searching for information related to zoning codes and regulations it is therefore necessary to only trust the most up-to-date guidance. If you are in doubt, you can also contact the council that is local to your project.
Although the council, state and federal governments conduct their own research that leads to the creation of zoning codes, all relevant research is taken into consideration. One of the issues that could lead to major changes in zoning codes is climate change. Rising sea levels, pollution, the depletion of natural resources etc. may result in major legislative shifts.
Construction inspections play a major role in ensuring that a build complies not only with approved construction plans, but also in accordance with the Building Code of Australia and Australian Standards. If you are building a property in the Northern Territory, give Houspect a call for advice and services.
