If you own, or are considering buying, a heritage property — or want to renovate one — it's important to understand what heritage listing means and what processes apply.
Types of heritage listing
There are two main lists:
- Local Heritage (Planning Scheme): Places significant to Glenorchy’s history, listed in the Heritage Code. Check tables GLE-C6.1, C6.4 and C6.5 in the draft Local Provisions Schedule.
- Tasmanian Heritage Register (THR): Places of state-level significance. Check the Heritage Tasmania website.
Listings can reflect archaeological, architectural, historical, community, technical, associative or scientific value.
Want to develop or renovate a heritage property?
In most cases you’ll need to lodge a planning application with Council. Exemptions exist for work with minimal heritage impact or routine maintenance using like-for-like materials — but if you’re unsure, contact Council (for locally listed places) or Heritage Tasmania (for THR-listed places) before proceeding.
Planning applications for heritage properties are discretionary and publicly advertised for 14 days. Applications involving THR-listed places are referred to the Heritage Council for determination. All proposals must satisfy the Performance Criteria in the Heritage Code.
Development applications
If you own a heritage-listed property and want to make changes to it, you’ll usually need to submit a planning application to Council, unless the work is exempt.
Some types of work don’t need approval. These exemptions are listed in the Heritage Code and generally cover routine maintenance or minor works that have little or no impact on the property’s heritage value. For example, replacing materials with the same type of material (“like for like”) is often exempt. If you’re unsure, contact Council (for locally listed properties) or Heritage Tasmania (for properties listed on the Tasmanian Heritage Register) before starting work.
Planning applications for heritage-listed properties are assessed through a discretionary process and are advertised publicly for 14 days. If your property is listed on the Tasmanian Heritage Register, Council will refer your application to the Heritage Council for assessment. To be approved, your proposal must meet the requirements of the Heritage Code.
The best way to protect a heritage building is to keep it in use. Sometimes changes are needed to make an older building comfortable and functional, such as updating a bathroom, kitchen, heating, or electrical systems. In most cases, this work can be done, but it’s important to plan carefully to ensure the heritage values of the property are respected.
We recommend seeking advice from professionals who have experience with heritage buildings. Council can provide a list of heritage consultants and can also offer free basic advice on heritage conservation, which may save you time and money.
Talking to Council’s Heritage Officer or Heritage Tasmania early in the planning process can help make the approval process smoother and faster.
What to include in your application
- Completed application form
- Site plan
- Drawings (elevations, plans and sections)
- Current title documents
- Application fee
Getting it right from the start
Most routine work — a new bathroom, kitchen, heating or electrical updates — can be carried out on heritage properties with the right advice. Consider engaging a professional with heritage conservation experience; Council can provide a list of suitable professionals and offer free basic advice on conservation principles.
Speaking with Council’s Heritage Officer or a Heritage Tasmania Advisor early in the process can save significant time and money.
Unsure what something on this page means? Check out Our Glossary.