MAYOR Digby Rayward has put forward a Mayoral Minute seeking Dungog Shire Council to review its policy relating to the residential occupation of sheds.
The current policy, adopted in 2001 and re-adopted in 2003, requires applicants to have full development and construction approvals for a dwelling before permission can be granted to temporarily live in a shed.
Cr Rayward argues this has become increasingly restrictive given the significant changes in the construction industry, economic pressures, and delays in the planning system.
To address this, the Mayor recommended prioritising a review of the policy and updating it to reflect current challenges.
Specifically, the review will consider allowing the General Manager to approve temporary occupation of sheds under delegated authority, where applicants have clearly indicated their intention to construct a dwelling on the property.
This would involve assessing each case on its merits and applying appropriate conditions and timeframes, without needing full council escalation.
Councillors endorsed updating the policy to allow flexibility to be applied immediately under the General Manager’s delegation.
