Exemption Certificates
Purpose
Exemption Certificates give approval for low impact development on a Queensland Heritage Place (a place in the Queensland Heritage Register) that is not covered by the General Exemption Certificate. Applications are limited to development that will not have a detrimental impact on cultural heritage significance or development that is permitted under a Heritage Agreement.
Application for an Exemption Certificate is made directly to EHP. It is simpler and faster than making a development application. Exemption Certificates are mostly used to obtain approval for conservation work and simple projects that do not affect significant parts of a place. Refer to Fact sheet: Exemption Certificates for places in the Queensland Heritage Register for more information.
Process
An application for an Exemption Certificate must be made submitting Form: Exemption Certificate directly to EHP. The application must include supporting information so the impact of the proposal can be fully assessed. The requirements depend on the values of the place. For example, applications for places with archaeological values require a Heritage Impact Statement, the results of an initial archaeological assessment and an archaeological management plan. Refer to Application guide - Exemption Certificates for more information.
To avoid delays associated with making incorrect or incomplete applications, applicants should contact EHP to discuss their proposals prior to making an application. Pre-lodgment meetings are encouraged by EHP and can be arranged by contacting EHP on 13 QGOV (13 74 68) and asking to speak to a heritage officer in your region.
Seeking advice from a professional or tradesperson with experience in heritage conservation is strongly recommended.
EHP assesses the impact of each application on the heritage values of the affected place. EHP may ask for more information if required to complete the assessment. Only work that will not have a detrimental impact on the heritage place is approved. Exemption Certificates are granted with specific conditions which must be complied with.
Explanatory note
Exemption Certificates are not part of the Integrated Development Assessment System (IDAS) under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009. Under the Sustainable Planning Regulation 2009 all development on a Queensland Heritage Place is assessable development, other than development:
- for which an exemption certificate has been issued
- that is liturgical development under the Queensland Heritage Act
- carried out by the State
- in an urban development area.
Development for which an Exemption Certificate has been given does not require referral for heritage assessment to EHP as part of the IDAS process or to the Queensland Heritage Council for development by the State.
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