Category 1 or Category 2: what the NVR map says about your land
The NSW Native Vegetation Regulatory (NVR) Map sorts rural land into 2 categories. Category 1 is exempt and can generally be cleared without approval. Category 2 is regulated, so clearing needs approval or must follow the Land Management Code. The category on your lot shapes what you can do with it, and what it might be worth to conserve.
Where the categories come from
The categories are set by section 60A of the Local Land Services Act 2013. The NVR map shows where each one applies.
The map took effect on 31 August 2026. Bland and Temora LGAs are excepted and keep existing arrangements while the NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee completes an independent review.
NSW's own guidance is that publishing the map does not change the clearing approval pathways. It makes it clearer where the categories apply on your property.
Category 1: exempt
Category 1 land can generally be cleared, fenced, dammed or built on without Local Land Services approval.
It typically covers land that has already been modified, such as cropping land and infrastructure footprints.
Other rules can still apply, such as council planning controls, so exempt from one Act is not the same as no approvals at all.
Category 2: regulated
Category 2 land is regulated. It has 3 sub-types.
| Sub-type | What it means |
|---|---|
| Regulated | Clearing needs approval or must follow the Land Management Code. Fencing, firebreaks and pasture improvement may be permitted. |
| Vulnerable | Steep or fragile land. Clearing is limited, for example to fences and firebreaks, and it is not suited to cultivation. |
| Sensitive | Clearing is heavily restricted. It can indicate an existing conservation agreement. |
The same map, read the other way
Category 2 vegetation is a constraint on clearing.
It is also where biodiversity value tends to sit. Native vegetation that cannot easily be cleared may be the same vegetation that could generate biodiversity credits under a stewardship agreement.
Whether it would depends on its type and condition, and on demand for those credits. That is a separate question, covered in can my land generate biodiversity credits?
Reading the map for your lot
The map is indicative. It is not a legal determination for a particular lot, and boundaries can need ground-truthing.
Before you clear, buy or plan works, confirm the category with Local Land Services.
For a quick look, MapCheck runs a free NVR map check. For the NVR categories alongside zoning, plant community type mapping and a native title search, the Land Constraint & Capability Assessment covers it.
Common questions
What is Category 1 land on the NVR map?
Category 1 is exempt land. It can generally be cleared without approval from Local Land Services. It includes land such as cropping land and areas that have already been modified.
What is Category 2 land on the NVR map?
Category 2 is regulated land. Clearing needs approval or must follow the Land Management Code. Category 2 has 3 sub-types: regulated, vulnerable and sensitive.
When did the NVR map come into force?
The Native Vegetation Regulatory Map took effect on 31 August 2026. Bland and Temora LGAs keep existing arrangements while an independent review is completed.
Did the published map change the clearing rules?
No. NSW says publication of the map does not change the existing clearing approval pathways. It makes it clearer where the categories apply on a property.
Sources
- Local Land Services Act 2013 (NSW), section 60A
- Understanding changes to the NVR map, NSW Government
- About the Native Vegetation Regulatory map, NSW Government
This article is general information, not legal, financial or tax advice. A MapCheck report is a preliminary screening tool.