Questions & Answers

How can I check what development is allowed under my Crown lease?

You can check what you are allowed to build by looking at your Crown lease, especially the purpose clause. It tells you how the land can be used and may say how many dwellings are allowed.

You should also check the ACT Territory Plan for the planning rules that apply to your block. If your Crown lease does not allow your proposed development, you may need to change (vary) the Crown lease.

Reference: Planning Act 2023 (A2023-18), Clause 276 – Use of Land for Leased Purpose – https://www.legislation.act.gov.au/View/a/2023-18/current/html/2023-18.html

Last reviewed: 27 August 2026 Information current as at: 1 September 2026

Short Answer

Check your Crown lease purpose clause to see what land use and development is allowed, and check the ACT Territory Plan for the planning rules that apply to your block. If the lease does not allow your proposal, you may need a Crown lease variation.

Detailed Explanation

You can check what development is allowed by reviewing your Crown lease, particularly its purpose clause. This sets out how the land can be used and may specify things such as the permitted use or number of dwellings.

You should also check the ACT Territory Plan, because your proposed development must comply with the planning rules that apply to your block. If your proposal is not permitted by the existing Crown lease, you may need to apply for a Crown lease variation.

Key Point

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

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