What are overlay maps?
Overlay maps are a part of planning schemes. They show where special features exist that need to be considered when assessing development. They could include where land may be at risk to hazards or other characteristics, like:
- flooding
- coastal hazards
- bushfire
- environmental areas.
An overlay map may apply to all or part of your property. More than one overlay can also affect your property. These overlays only affect you if you plan to develop your property. Development can include:
- building or extending
- changing how the land is used
- subdividing
- clearing native vegetation
- doing earthworks like filling or excavating.
Learn more about the different types of overlays and requirements.
How and when does Council amend overlay maps?
Council creates overlay maps using detailed technical information, including data from the State Government. Find out more about mapping datasets.
We review mapping data regularly. The review process involves large studies, investigations, and technical modelling. The State Government can also update this data, prompting Council to update the overlay mapping in response.
Changes to overlay maps can only occur through a statutory planning scheme amendment process. State legislation outlines this process, which can take 12 months to 2 years from start to finish.
Learn more about planning scheme amendments.
What if the overlay mapping on my property doesn’t look right?
If you believe an overlay map relating to your property needs to be reviewed as part of Council's future amendment process, email mbrcplanningscheme@moretonbay.qld.gov.au.
Council may record your feedback for possible further review. We may need to consider it as part of broader investigations and technical studies that cover a wider area than your property.
Any updates to overlay maps must go through the amendment process. For more information, refer to the Planning scheme amendments factsheet.
What if my property’s site levels have changed? Is the flood overlay still relevant?
The Flood Hazard Overlay Map does not automatically update to reflect recent changes, such as from new development and flood mitigation. It still uses flood and ground-level information from before the release of the Planning Scheme in 2016. You should not use these maps to understand current flood risk.
To get the latest flood information for your property, use Flood Viewer and download your flood check property report. These tools provide flood information that can be updated regularly because they are separate from the planning scheme.