Get instant answers to planning questions by calling our AI assistant—available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This free service can help you understand zoning, permit requirements, and planning rules for your property
Available 24/7 • No wait times • Instant answers
How it works
The AI assistant can help with:
- Property Questions: Find zone and overlay details for your property and understand how this affects what development and use is permitted
- Permit Requirements: Learn whether your project needs planning approval, what type of permit is required or if exemptions could apply
- Application Process Guidance: Get plain-English step-by-step information to support your planning application
- Planning Scheme Information: Understand Huon Valley planning rules, setbacks, height limits, and more
- Document Requirements: Find out what supporting documents you need for your application
- General Planning Advice: Ask questions about building codes, neighbours, overlays, and local planning policies
Tips & Tricks
How do I use it?
- You do not need to be a planning expert and Michael is very patient. Just have a conversation describing in your words what you want to build or do on your property
Step 1: Identify your property
You do not have to share any personal information, but to receive accurate information about your property, start by providing either:
- Your street address,
- Your Property Identification Number (PID) OR
- Certificate of Title Reference
Don’t know your PID or Certificate of Title Reference?
If your property doesn’t have a street number (like rural or lot addresses), use the Tasmanian State Government’s free PlanBuild website to find your property details:
- Visit planbuild.tas.gov.au
- Search your address or click on your property on the map
- A popup shows your PID and Certificate of Title reference
Step 2: Describe your project
- Tell Michael what you’re planning to build or do
- Answer follow-up questions about size, location, and setbacks
- Receive guidance on approval pathways and requirements
- Get referred to Council’s planning team for complex matters
What type of questions could I ask?
- “What’s my property zoned as?”
- “Do I need approval to build a 40 sqm shed?”
- “Can I subdivide my rural property?”
- “What are overlays, and how do they affect my land?”
- “Is my extension exempt from planning approval?”
- “What are the setback requirements for my zone?”
Important limitations
This service provides general guidance only—not formal planning advice.
The AI assistant cannot:
- Provide formal planning approvals or binding decisions
- Access your application or property records
- Submit or modify applications
- Assess complex or unusual site-specific matters
Privacy & call information
- Calls are free (standard phone charges may apply)
- No personal information required—you can inquire anonymously
- Conversations recorded for quality improvement only
- Call records deleted after 30 days
- Complies with Privacy Act 1988 and Council’s Privacy Policy
Frequently asked questions
How accurate is the information?
The AI is trained on current Tasmanian planning regulations and the Huon Valley Planning Scheme. However, planning is complex and every property is different. Always verify important information with our planning team before making decisions.
Can I rely on this for my planning application?
No. The AI provides general guidance only. Planning officers make all official decisions. For formal advice or to submit an application, contact our planning team.
What if it can’t answer my question?
The assistant will direct you to contact our human planning team for complex matters or questions requiring access to specific records.
Is there a charge?
No. The service is completely free (standard phone charges from your provider may apply).
Disclaimer
This AI assistant provides general planning information for guidance purposes only. It does not constitute formal planning advice, approval, or a binding decision by Huon Valley Council.