The powerful, masked, sooty and barking owls are listed as endangered and are common to the region. They inhabit mature forest growth, which provides prey and hollows for nesting.

However, sightings of the birds are becoming less frequent.

To protect the threatened species, Lake Macquarie council has adopted the Interim Lake Macquarie Large Forest Owl Planning and Management Guidelines.

Unanimously supported at last week's council meeting, the guidelines will provide a framework for future conservation strategies.

They also take into account impact on the species' habitat where development is likely to occur.

A council report estimated more than 5900 hectares of large forest owl habitat could be disrupted by 2030.

Development and its impact on the owls' habitat was the most frequently raised issue during the two-month public exhibition.

Hunter Bird Observers Club president Mick Roderick said he was confident the guidelines addressed preserving the owls' habitat.

"It is commendable that Lake Macquarie City Council has produced guidelines for the conservation and research of threatened forest owls because that area has been shown to be vitally important for several owl species," he said.

"The production of the guidelines involved much research and input by many owl experts and will be a key reference for future generations."