Transport and Infrastructure SEPP amendments
The Transport and Infrastructure SEPP (T&I SEPP) sets out the planning rules and controls for infrastructure in NSW.
The department regularly reviews and updates the T&I SEPP to ensure the planning rules support NSW's infrastructure improvements.
Landscape rehydration infrastructure
A new guideline to help farmers
A step-by-step guideline entitled 'landscape rehydration infrastructure works - approvals and procedures' details what approvals farmers need in order to implement landscape rehydration techniques to rehabilitate eroded streams. The guideline has been issued by the Planning Secretary under Section 170 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021 and commences on 20 March 2023.
Landscape rehydration infrastructure works - approvals and procedures guideline
A new planning pathway
In December 2022, changes were made through the State Environmental Planning Policy (Miscellaneous) (No 2) 2022, including a new planning pathway for landscape rehydration infrastructure.
NSW farmers can now work towards repairing, restoring and rehydrating dry land without relying on rainfall, thanks to provisions permitting landscape rehydration infrastructure as development without consent.
The amendment has made it easier for landowners to restore streams on their property through landscape rehydration techniques without development approval. However, an environmental assessment is required together with state agency approvals.
Landscape rehydration involves using natural materials, such as plants, logs and rocks, to support a catchment’s flow. This slows the stream and raises water levels, so it’s retained for longer periods, enabling it to seep into the nearby soil.
This infrastructure aims to improve soil health and plant growth, reduce erosion, and keep the soils moist. The infrastructure is not to impound water or prevent fish passage.
The amendment is to help farmers keep their properties hydrated and build resilience to natural disasters such as future droughts and flooding.
More Information
For more information, visit the Transport and Infrastructure SEPP webpage.
For more information on the changes, please contact the policy team.
If you would like to speak with us in a language other than English, call 131 450. Ask for an interpreter in your language and then request to be connected to our Information Centre on 1300 305 695.