Permits

About the permit system

The permit system manages activities in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area (the Area). It helps protect the Area’s World Heritage values by ensuring proposed activities are assessed and managed before they occur. The system is established under the Wet Tropics Management Plan 1998 (the Management Plan).

The Management Plan establishes zones which specify activities that are either prohibited, allowed under permit, or allowed without a permit.

When is a permit required

Permits are generally required for activities which disturb vegetation, soil, water or scenic values in the Area. Contact the Wet Tropics Management Authority before submitting a permit application form (PDF, 2MB) to confirm if a permit is necessary and what information may be required.

How permits are assessed

Permit applications are assessed individually against specific criteria, with the primary focus on the impact of the activity on the Area’s World Heritage values and integrity. The assessment process also considers other factors, including the environmental and cultural significance of the site, zoning, and any measures proposed to mitigate impacts. Wet Tropics Management Plan 1998 guidelines have been developed to help assess permit applications and inform permit applicants.

Conditions and compliance

If a permit is granted, the permit holder must comply with all of the conditions set out in the permit. These may include restrictions on the scale or timing of activities, measures to protect sensitive areas, and obligations to monitor and report on any impacts. Non-compliance with permit conditions can result in enforcement action.

To obtain a permit for activities within the Wet Tropics of Queensland World Heritage Area complete a permit application form.

Permit application form (PDF, 2MB)