Contravention & regularisation

What it is

If a municipality finds that a property is used or built contrary to its zoning or approved plans, it may issue a contravention notice. Depending on the circumstances the use or structure may be regularised through an application, or may need to stop. Early, accurate response is important.

When you may need it

• You received a contravention notice or compliance letter
• You bought a property with unapproved structures or uses

What our work includes

• Review of the notice and the property's rights
• Advice on regularisation options
• Preparation of the necessary applications and correspondence

The broad process

1. 1.Review the notice and deadlines
2. 2.Advise on options
3. 3.Submit application or response
4. 4.Follow-through

Documents commonly required

• The notice received
• Copy of the title deed (later stage, not at enquiry)
• Surveyor-General diagram or general plan
• Zoning certificate or current land-use information
• Power of attorney and owner consent where applicable

You don’t need these to make an initial enquiry.

What affects cost and duration

• Professional planning fees for preparation and motivation
• Municipal application fees set by the relevant municipality
• Advertising and notice costs where public participation is required
• Specialist reports (for example traffic, engineering services or environmental)
• Possible penalties or administrative fees imposed by the municipality

We provide a project-specific quotation that separates professional fees from municipal charges, advertising and specialist costs. Timeframes vary with scope, completeness, objections, specialist work and municipal processing.

Limitations

We are town planners, not attorneys. Where litigation or criminal proceedings are involved, legal advice is needed.

Questions