Planning & Development in Flood Areas
Flooding is an important consideration when planning new development, building works and land use activities.
Development within flood-affected areas has the potential to increase flood risk to people and property if it is not appropriately designed and managed.
Parkes Shire Council assesses development proposals on flood-affected land to ensure they are safe, compatible with the flood risk and do not adversely impact surrounding properties.
Depending on the location and nature of a proposal, applicants may be required to provide additional information demonstrating how flood risks will be managed.
What does Council consider?
When assessing development in flood-affected areas, Council may consider:
- potential flood risk to people, property and infrastructure
- flood depth, velocity and hazard
- safe access and evacuation during flood events
- impacts on flood behaviour and neighbouring properties
- finished floor levels and building design
- suitability of the proposed land use
- relevant flood studies, planning controls and government guidelines.
Before purchasing land or lodging a development application
Property owners and developers are encouraged to determine whether land is affected by flooding and discuss any requirements with Council at an early stage.
Early consideration of flood constraints can help identify development opportunities, reduce project costs and avoid delays during assessment.
If you are considering development on land that may be flood affected, contact Council's Planning Team for advice regarding applicable planning controls, information requirements and development assessment processes.
Contact Council's Planning Team