Planning Zones & Controls in Adelaide, South Australia

Adelaide is located within City of Adelaide (South Australia). The following planning zones and overlays are commonly found in this area.

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Planning Zones

These zones are commonly applied to properties in Adelaide and the broader City of Adelaide area.

Capital City
City Living

Overlays & controls

Properties in Adelaide may be affected by one or more of the following overlays / codes, which add extra planning controls on top of the zone.

Heritage
Historic Area

What can you build in Adelaide?

Adelaide sits in City of Adelaide (South Australia). What you can build — a granny flat, a subdivision, a second dwelling, townhouses or an extension — depends on your property's zone and overlays. These guides set out the South Australia rules for the most common projects:

Heads up: parts of Adelaide carry heritage controls (see the overlays above), which can change what's allowed or require planning approval.

Check your property in Adelaide

Find out exactly what planning controls apply to your property in Adelaide and whether you need approval.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I build in Adelaide?

What you can build in Adelaide — such as a granny flat (secondary dwelling), a subdivision, a second dwelling, townhouses or a house extension — depends on your property's planning zone and any overlays, together with the South Australia planning rules. See the project guides above for Adelaide, or get a $39 planning report for a plain-English answer specific to your address.

What planning zone is Adelaide in?

Properties in Adelaide are commonly located in the Capital City, City Living. The exact zone for your property depends on its specific location within Adelaide. You can check your property's zone using SAPPA (the SA Property and Planning Atlas) or our free Property Snapshot tool.

Do I need a planning permit in Adelaide?

Whether you need a planning approval in Adelaide depends on the zone your property is in, any overlays that apply, and the type of work you are proposing. Most new dwellings, extensions, subdivisions, and changes of use require approval. Some minor works may be exempt or "accepted development" depending on the zone and overlay controls. Use our free tools to check your specific situation.

How do I find my property's planning zone?

You can find your property's planning zone by searching your address on SAPPA (the SA Property and Planning Atlas), the official South Australia planning map. It shows the zone, overlays, and other planning controls that apply to any property in South Australia.