Queensland’s Planning Act 2016 defines “Operational Works”as follows:
“means work, other than building work or plumbing or drainage work, in, on, over or under premises that materially affects premises or the use of premises”.
Operational Works (OPW) generally encompasses a range of tasks that will change the site and can include:
Earthworks
Removing vegetation on site
Civil work for subdivisions like connecting to existing infrastructure or other works that need to be done as part of changing the use of a site
Roadworks
Stormwater, water, and sewer infrastructure
Driveway crossovers
Car parks
Streetscape modifications
Putting up an advertising device (if not dealt with by a Local Law)
Prescribed tidal works.
Undertaking Operational Works on a site may require a development permit. This permission might be required separate to, or together with, a development application for another aspect of development.
Operational Works for earthworks or advertising devices are typically triggered under a Planning Scheme. All other aspects of Operational Works are typically triggered by conditions of a development approval such as a material change of use or reconfiguring a lot.
Operational Works essentially deal with detailed engineering matters which council need to be satisfied with that may not have been addressed in enough detail in a development application.
As such, documentation for Operational Works applications to council are typically prepared by engineers. Their process includes reviewing the site, gathering all the documentation requested by council and preparing designs or plans and certifications related to the Operational Works needed.
Because every site is different the required Operational Works can vary a great deal. The expertise of one of our town planners or a civil engineer will help you identify the OPW needed, appropriately plan for the application, and finally the execution of the work.
Consult Planning has established relationships with a number of Civil Engineers and can make an introduction for clients. Get in touch via office@consultplanning.com.au or call us on 1300 017 540.
Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to provide accurate information, Consult Planning does not guarantee that this blog article is free from errors or omissions or is suitable for your intended use. Requirements and standards frequently change so every individual proposal should be thoroughly investigated.
