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Painted facade of an Art Deco apartment building in Darlinghurst

Heritage Planning Guide

Heritage Paint Colours and Approvals

By Nick Kyriacou, Master Painter & Owner, Brushworks Painters · Updated 30 September 2026

Colour selection for an older property starts with the building’s heritage status and existing materials. Before arranging heritage painting in Sydney, confirm which changes need advice, an exemption or formal approval.

Discuss a Heritage Painting Scope Call 0401 533 408

Check the Property Before Selecting Colours

Search the relevant planning controls and heritage inventory for the property. City of Sydney guidance says exterior repainting often does not need permission, but exceptions apply, including heritage-listed buildings and properties in the Millers Point and Dawes Point Village precinct. Other councils have their own controls.

Respect Original and Unpainted Materials

Do not assume every facade surface should be painted. The City’s guidance warns against painting face brickwork, sandstone, tiles and other originally unpainted materials. Removing an unsuitable coating can also damage the substrate, so seek appropriate heritage advice before specifying treatment.

Photograph existing colours and materials before work.
Keep approved colour schedules with the project documents.
Confirm boundaries between painted and unpainted surfaces.
Test sample colours in the actual exterior light.

Put the Approved Scheme Into the Scope

The quote should identify each colour, finish and location and attach any approval conditions that affect preparation or application. If the approval is pending, avoid ordering products or starting visible changes until the consent pathway is settled.