Questions & Answers

How are heritage constraints considered during residential development assessment?

Heritage constraints are considered during residential development assessment by identifying whether the proposed works may affect a heritage place or its heritage values. Under the Heritage Act 2004, changes to heritage places must not reduce their heritage significance. Development that may impact heritage values, such as demolitions, building alterations, additions, earthworks, landscaping changes, or new development, may require heritage approval or assessment.

During assessment, the proposal may need to demonstrate that heritage impacts are avoided or appropriately managed. Depending on the type and scale of works, a Development Application, heritage approval, or supporting documents such as a Heritage Statement Report may be required. Heritage considerations can influence the design, materials, location, and extent of proposed residential development to ensure the heritage values of the site are protected.

Reference: Development at heritage sites – ACT Government

Last reviewed: 30 July 2026 Information current as at: 30 October 2026

Short Answer

Heritage constraints are considered during residential development assessment by identifying whether a proposed development may affect a heritage place or its heritage values. Works such as demolition, alterations, additions, earthworks, landscaping changes, or new development may require heritage assessment or approval. The proposal must demonstrate that heritage impacts are avoided or appropriately managed while protecting the significance of the site.

Detailed Explanation

Heritage constraints are considered during residential development assessment by determining whether the proposed works may affect a heritage place, heritage object, or the heritage values of a site. Under the ACT heritage approval process, changes to heritage places must ensure that they do not reduce the heritage value of the place. During assessment, the ACT Government considers the type and extent of proposed works, including:
  • Demolition of existing heritage buildings or structures.
  • Building additions and alterations that may change the appearance, form, or character of the heritage place.
  • Earthworks, excavation, landscaping changes, removal of mature plants, or land clearing that may affect heritage values.
  • Changes of land use or new development, including greenfield development and infrastructure works.
Where a residential development may impact a heritage place, the applicant may need to obtain the appropriate approval pathway, such as a Development Application (DA) through the Territory Planning Authority or heritage approval through the ACT Heritage Council, depending on the type of work proposed. Heritage considerations may influence the design, materials, location, and extent of development to ensure heritage significance is retained. For exempt development at heritage-registered residential sites, proposals must still comply with planning rules, not conflict with the Heritage Act 2004, and may require ACT Heritage Council endorsement. Applications are assessed through a completeness check and must include the required supporting documentation before assessment begins. Overall, heritage constraints can affect the feasibility, design, timing, and approval requirements of residential development by requiring developers to protect heritage values while achieving an appropriate development outcome.
Key Point

No minimum block size does not remove the need for planning assessment.

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