If the zoning is changed, landowners do not have to change their use of the land or lifestyle. They can stay as they are or they may set about changing their land use. For instance, some may seek approval to subdivide their land or apply to develop it in some way that suits the new zoning.

The WAPC realises that many people choose their properties because they like them as they are and may not want to change from, for example, a rural-residential lifestyle to an urban area. Others are keen to change the land use.

For these reasons, amendments to the MRS are advertised so that all affected landowners and anyone else have time to examine the proposals and lodge a submission.

If your land is marked for a reservation in an advertised amendment, you can continue to use and enjoy your property. Generally, reserved land can remain in private ownership until it is needed for the purpose for which it is reserved. The WAPC has reservations over many areas of land which are privately owned. To protect landowners, there are procedures for acquisition or compensation by the WAPC. These are outlined in Your Property and the Metropolitan Region Scheme.