MBRC Planning Scheme - Environmental management and conservation zone

The Environmental management and conservation zone covers areas of significant ecological and biological value, areas that have high-value vegetation and areas that provide key wildlife breeding and refuge. The Environmental management and conservation zone includes mountain ranges, forests and waterways. The significant majority of these areas are held in public ownership.

What is the purpose of this zone?

  • Protect areas identified as supporting significant biological diversity and ecological integrity.
  • Manage the type and impact of development in these areas.
  • Encourage the restoration of these areas.
  • Establish a network of natural landscapes which contribute to habitat connectivity, koala sustainability, biodiversity resilience, lifestyle and recreation opportunities.

There are no precincts in the Environmental management and conservation zone.

Example of Environmental management and conservation zone mapping 

Environmental management and conservation zone map example
Environmental management legend Environmental management and conservation zone

What can I expect to see in this zone?

A limited range of uses are expected in the Environmental management and conservation zone, including:

  • environment facility (nature-based attractions, walking tracks, seating, shelters, board walks, observation decks, bird hides)
  • permanent plantation
  • development directly supporting or appreciating these biological, natural and environmental areas.
  • development occurring on Council controlled land and in accordance with a Council approved master plan; or State owned land or other Crown holdings and in accordance with the relevant controlling legislation (e.g. Forestry Act 1959, Nature Conservation Act 1992) under which the land is administered by the State.

More information

Assessment benchmarks (requirements) for development (material change of use) in the Environmental management and conservation zone can be found in Part 6, section 6.2.4 Environmental management and conservation zone code. 

Refer to Part 5 of the planning scheme to determine the category of development and assessment (type of application required, if any) for development in the Environmental management and conservation zone. Section 5.5.4 Environmental management and conservation zone Table of assessment identifies the category of development and assessment for a material change of use.

Assessment benchmarks for reconfiguring a lot in the Environmental management and conservation zone can be found in Part 9 section 9.4.1.4  Reconfiguring a lot code, Environmental management and conservation zone.

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