How Land is Zoned

A recent enquiry about 'how land is zoned' asked:

We are on the edge of one zone type (LBC/E4) with our 2nd (neighbouring) block zoned LG/R2. Given the disparity between these two zonings I'd like to know exactly what determines our zoning. Is it topography, distance from the bush, street placement, or a combination of factors, and if so, what are they please? Thanks

In answer to this question it would be helpful to know where the property is located in order to give a more specific answer. There are many factors involved in determining how land is zoned.  Zones reflect the primary character of land, such as residential, industrial or rural, and indicate the type of use which may be appropriate in that zone.  Council planners usually start by determining which environmental constraints might exist, and what areas are special or sensitive and in need of particular protection.

In this case some of the subject land would have special environmental qualities worthy of protection, requiring an Environmental zone (E4) to be applied over that land. These might include scenic or environmental values such as significant flora and fauna habitat, significant natural areas or proximity to a water course. Land zoned Living Bushland Conservation under LEP 2005, or Residential Bushland Conservation under LEP 1991, has, under DLEP 2013, generally been transferred to  the E4 zone.  E4 is intended for existing urban areas with environmental or scenic values, where low impact residential uses do not adversely affect these special characteristics.