Certain forms of low-impact development may be exempt from the need to obtain planning or construction approval. If certain development standards are met, specific types of development can be built without needing to be approved by either the local council or an accredited certifier. However, other legislative requirements for approvals, licences, permits and authorities may still apply.
Exempt development typically covers small-scale structures associated with a dwelling such as sheds, pergolas, fences, rainwater tanks, fixed barbecues, dams and advertisements.
State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008 specifies exempt development across NSW. While most exempt development provisions are covered by the State Environmental Planning Policy, there are a small number of exempt development types contained within the Tamworth Regional Local Environmental Plan 2010.