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2.3.7 Special Considerations

Sources: Lake Bennett (Land Title) Act 2005 Schedule 5; NT Heritage and Aboriginal sacred sites frameworks.

Heritage and Archaeological Places

Schedule 5 planning principles require development to assist conservation of areas and sites of environmental, cultural or heritage value identified by the Territory (clause 7(e)).

When clearing native vegetation (where consent is required), applications must consider the presence of a heritage object, heritage place, archaeological object or archaeological site (Schedule 5, clause 28(5)(l) — referencing the former Heritage Conservation Act; now administered under the Heritage Act 2011 (NT)).

If You Find Possible Heritage Material

Stop work and contact NT Heritage / the Heritage Branch via nt.gov.au contacts. If human remains are found, call Police (000 / 131 444) first.

Interpretive Signs

Temporary or interpretive signs describing sites or items of historical or educational significance are among the sign types not prevented by Schedule 5 clause 4 exceptions (subject to other laws).

Aboriginal Sacred Sites and Cultural Heritage

All Aboriginal sacred sites in the NT are protected under the Northern Territory Aboriginal Sacred Sites Act 1989, administered by the Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority (AAPA), whether or not a site is registered.

  • For ground-disturbing works or vegetation clearing, AAPA recommends applying for an Authority Certificate before works start: aapant.org.au.
  • An Authority Certificate sets conditions for works near sacred sites and provides indemnity if conditions are followed.
  • Aboriginal archaeological places and objects are also protected under the Heritage Act 2011 (NT).

This page does not list specific site locations. Custodians define protection requirements through the AAPA process.

Lake-specific Special Rules

Topic Rule
Houseboats Not permitted (Schedule 5, clause 14(3))
Camping / caravans on 1254–1255 Not permitted (further development restricted)
Pontoons Strict size, mooring, clearance and insurance rules — see 2.3.3 Community Facilities
Flood level (new dwellings on 1252) Floor ≥ 200 mm above 1-in-100 year flood level (Schedule 6, Condition 5)
Pets on units One domesticated pet per proprietor; leash on common areas; no disturbance (Articles 11)
Domestic livestock on 1252 Not permitted (Schedule 5, clause 12(2)(c))

Tourism and Resort Interface

Section 1253 (resort) has a broader list of consented uses (hotel, motel, restaurant, shop, etc.). Estate residential amenity and lake protection conditions still apply. Coordinate noisy events and access with the Corporation and resort operator as needed.

Consultation Checklist Before Works

  1. Corporation plan approval (Articles 5.1).
  2. Planning consent / development permit if required (Schedule 5).
  3. Building permit / Tier 1 certification.
  4. AAPA Authority Certificate for ground disturbance (recommended).
  5. Service authority requirements for easements (Schedule 6, Condition 9).

Version Control

Version Date Description
1.0 2025-10-06 Initial Release
1.1 2026-08-11 Content from Schedule 5, Articles, AAPA/Heritage frameworks

Next Review Date: 2027-02-11