Heritage Overlay VS Character Overlay
In this blog, we delve into the differences of heritage and character overlay and how to find out if your home is affected.
Introduction
Last week, we addressed Character Overlay and its purpose, objectives and restrictions on select Brisbane areas. This week we delve into Heritage Overlay, how to find out if your home has a Character Overlay or Heritage Overlay and what the next steps are if you are wanting to renovate an overlay home.
What is a Heritage Overlay?
Similar to Character Overlays, Heritage Overlays are in place to protect specific areas and places of heritage significance. These heritage places can be of local, national or world heritage significance.
Heritage significance is embodied in the place itself, in the whole of the building and is defined in terms of aesthetic , historic, scientific, social or spiritual value for past, present or future generations.
Heritage Overlay Building Restrictions
Homes with a Heritage Overlay are to be retained and restored to preserve their heritage value. Developments on sites surrounding heritage places should not impact the value of the heritage place.
Character Overlay VS Heritage Overlay
Both classifications involve preserving the facade of the home in keeping with its original appearance. Heritage Overlay is given to iconic Brisbane historical homes. Whereas, the Traditional Building Character Overlay is given to more common homes, such as typical Queenslanders. Heritage Overlay homes have much more strict protection guidelines and renovation/extension restrictions, than Traditional Building Character Overlay homes.
Finding Out If Your Home Is Affected - Brisbane City Council: City Plan Online Mapping
Brisbane City Council, has a comprehensive search tool, called City Plan Online Mapping. This service allows you to search and view your property on a map to see if you have a site in a Character or Heritage Overlay. The search also provides you with extensive information on any relevant Neighbourhood Plans and Zoning that may impact your home.
Visit Brisbane City Council’s City Plan Online Mapping to see if your home has an overlay:
Renovating or Extending an Overlay Home
If your property is classified under an overlay, you will require development approval from council and a supplementary town planning report, that will need to be attained before construction.
If your home has an overlay, you can contact the Brisbane City Council for more information.
How Can Oztown Help?
We work closely in collaboration with a range of experienced Architects and Building Designers with expertise in Character and Heritage Overlays. At Oztown, our team can facilitate you through the process of navigating council regulations, help you find a design team suitable for your property’s needs, and advise you on what’s feasible from a construction point of view.
If you are interested in taking the next steps and finding out what is possible for your property, contact our team.