Heritage Conservation Areas (HCAs) are streetscapes, suburbs, areas and precincts that are recognised by a community for their distinctive historical character.

HCAs often provide evidence of a particular historical development period and/or a distinct architectural style. They have a high proportion of original historic buildings.

HCAs are protected because they demonstrate a distinctive identity and a particular sense of place and character that is valued by the community.

The significance of an HCA is often a function of: underlying landform, subdivision layout, street pattern, and/or building styles (for example, historical associations, materials, form and scale).

Heritage Items are places, buildings, works, relics, moveable objects and precincts (both public and private) that are recognised to have one or more significant heritage values. They are important places or objects from the past which should be conserved so they can be accessed, appreciated and enjoyed by future generations.

Like HCAs, Heritage Items often provide physical evidence of a particular historical period or style that is of importance.

Being in an HCA does change how you apply for some development. Below are a few typical examples:

Installing solar panels?

In most circumstances, solar panels are Exempt Development (not requiring planning or building approval) if they are not visible from the street.

Installing glass bi-fold doors to the rear, building a deck or demolishing a shed or pool?

This may be Complying Development. In this case a private certifier can approve the application based on the State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008.

Demolition, building a secondary dwelling, adding a second storey or an addition, or changing the front sash windows?

In this instance a development application is required. Council will assess this application using the Inner West Local Environmental Plan 2022 and Development Control Plans. Demolition of properties will only be supported in limited circumstances and having regard to the wider context of the HCA.

Minor works, such as painting the exterior, and general maintenance

For some works, of a minor nature or for the maintenance of the property, you may qualify for an exemption and need not obtain consent. This is known as a Heritage Exemption. This may include changes to increase accessibility or external painting. You can find out more here.

If you are currently considering changes on your property or have any development questions please contact our Duty Planner on 02 9392 5000 Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm.