When Is a Statement of Heritage Impact Required?
A Statement of Heritage Impact (SHI) is a key document in the NSW planning process for development involving heritage properties. Knowing when an SHI is required can help you plan your project timeline and budget appropriately.
SHI Requirements Checklist
You will generally need a Statement of Heritage Impact if any of the following apply to your project:
Understanding Heritage Listings in NSW
Local Heritage Items (LEP)
Most heritage items in NSW are listed on local councils' Local Environmental Plans. These items are considered to have heritage significance at the local level. Development applications affecting these items require an SHI that addresses the relevant clauses of the LEP (typically Clause 5.10 of the Standard Instrument LEP).
State Heritage Register
Items of state heritage significance are listed on the NSW State Heritage Register, administered by Heritage NSW. Any proposed works to a State Heritage Register item require approval under Section 60 of the Heritage Act 1977, in addition to any local council requirements. This involves a more rigorous assessment process and the SHI must address the state-level significance of the item.
Heritage Conservation Areas
Heritage Conservation Areas protect the collective heritage character of a streetscape or area. Properties within an HCA are subject to heritage controls even if they are not individually heritage listed. An SHI for works within an HCA should address the contribution of the property to the character of the conservation area and the potential impact of the proposed works on that character.
What Happens If You Don't Get an SHI
Submitting a development application without the required heritage documentation can result in:
- —Your DA being returned as incomplete, delaying the assessment process
- —Requests for additional information that extend the assessment timeline
- —Refusal of your DA on heritage grounds, requiring redesign and re-submission
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need an SHI for internal renovations to a heritage-listed property?
- It depends on the extent of the works and your council's requirements. Some councils require an SHI for any works to a heritage-listed property, including internal renovations, while others only require one for works that affect the external appearance or significant internal fabric. Check your council's DCP heritage provisions or contact the planning department to confirm.
- Is an SHI required for painting a heritage-listed building?
- Generally, repainting in the same colour scheme may be exempt from requiring an SHI. However, changing the colour scheme of a heritage-listed building or a building within a Heritage Conservation Area may require a DA with an SHI. Some councils have exempt development provisions for like-for-like maintenance, so check with your local council.
- Do I need an SHI if my property is only near a heritage item but not listed itself?
- Possibly. If your proposed development is 'in the vicinity of' a heritage item (as defined in your council's LEP), and the works may affect the heritage item's setting, views, or significance, you may be required to submit an SHI or heritage assessment with your DA. The definition of 'vicinity' varies by council.
- Can I do any work on a heritage property without an SHI?
- Yes. Many councils allow certain minor works as exempt development, meaning no DA (and therefore no SHI) is required. This typically includes like-for-like maintenance and repairs using the same materials, minor interior works that do not affect significant fabric, and some garden maintenance. Check your council's exempt development provisions for heritage items.
Contact our team to discuss your heritage project requirements.
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