Public Positive Covenant
Public Positive Covenant

Public Positive Covenant

Public Positive Covenant

Check for outstanding debts or obligations before you buy. This certificate reveals any debts that could transfer to you during a property sale.
Last updated on: 31 January 2026
In this article
In this article

Public Positive Covenant Certificate

City of Newcastle may place positive covenants on subdivided properties to ensure key conditions like drainage easements or bushfire safety are maintained.
If a property owner fails to meet these obligations, we can carry out the necessary work and recover the costs.

A Public Positive Covenant Certificate will:

  • show any outstanding debts related to these covenants
  • these debts may transfer to the buyer if unpaid at the time of sale.

Application information

Before you proceed

In the Newcastle Local Government Area, these types of covenants are rare, and certificates are often requested unnecessarily. It's important to confirm whether a relevant covenant exists before applying.

What you need to provide

This section will help you prepare a complete application; however additional information may be requested after our initial review.

Application fees

Application fees vary based on several factors. To get a quote, simply click the 'Apply Now' button below. You'll be guided through a few quick questions, and we'll provide a tailored fee estimate before you proceed.
Additional fees may apply following a full review of your application.

Submit application

Create or sign into your account

  • As part of the application process, you'll be prompted to register or sign in to your account.
  • Your account makes it easy to submit applications and requests, track their progress, view outcomes, and make payments all in one place.
  • You can find more information and step-by-step guidance on creating a registered user account, as well as access to support services, on our Registration Enquiry article.

Next steps

  1. Shortly after submitting your application, you will receive an email confirming we've received it, along with a receipt for your application fees.
  2. Once we receive your application, we'll begin reviewing it and investigate any outstanding debts linked to the identified public positive covenant.
  3. You will receive an email with a certificate identifying any outstanding charges.

Time frames

Certificates typically take 7-10 days to complete.