Understanding Development Applications (DAs) in NSW

If you’re planning to build, renovate, subdivide, or change the use of land in New South Wales, you will most likely need to submit a Development Application (DA) to your local council. At Pac Planning, we understand that the DA process can seem complex and overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.

This guide explains what a DA is, the steps involved, and how working with a trusted town planner can make the process straightforward and efficient.

What is a Development Application?

A Development Application is a formal request to your local council seeking approval to carry out a proposed development. This could include building a new home, adding a secondary dwelling, subdividing land, or changing how a property is used. The purpose of the DA is to ensure that developments comply with local and state planning rules, protect the environment, and consider the community’s interests.

When Do You Need a DA?

Not all types of work require a DA. For example, minor alterations or repairs may be classified as exempt development, which does not require council approval.

In some cases, your development may qualify as Complying Development. This is a fast-track approval pathway for straightforward developments that meet specific criteria set by state policies. Complying Development allows you to obtain approval either through council or an accredited certifier without the need for a full DA process. However, if your project does not meet the requirements for exempt or complying development, you will need to lodge a DA. The specific requirements vary depending on the council and the scale of your project.

The DA Process: Step-by-Step

1. Preliminary Research and Advice - Before you start preparing your application, it’s essential to understand the planning rules and any restrictions affecting your site. This might include zoning, height limits, environmental constraints, or heritage overlays. At this stage, working with a town planner can save you time and money by identifying potential issues early and advising on the best path forward. They can also help determine if your development qualifies as exempt, complying, or requires a full DA.

2. Prepare the Application - Once you understand the requirements, the next step is to prepare the necessary documentation. This includes detailed architectural or site plans showing your proposal, as well as supporting reports such as a Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) that explains how your development complies with planning controls and manages environmental impacts. Other specialist reports may be needed depending on the project, such as traffic studies, bushfire assessments, or heritage impact statements. Preparing a thorough and clear application helps prevent delays later on.

3. Lodge the DA with Council - With your application complete, it is submitted to the local council for assessment via the NSW Planning Portal. Council will check that the application is valid and notify nearby neighbours or affected parties to allow them to provide feedback (if required by Council's Community Particiaption Plans). Some councils provide an online DA Tracker, making the process easier to track. At this stage, fees are payable based on the nature and scale of the project.

4. Assessment Period - Council officers review the application against relevant planning legislation, local environmental plans, and development control plans. This assessment includes evaluating the proposed impacts on the environment, neighbourhood character, infrastructure, and community interests (among many other considerations). Councils usually have statutory timeframes for processing DAs, but the length can vary depending on the complexity of the proposal and whether any additional information is needed.

5. Requests for Additional Information - It is common for councils to request more details or clarification to address concerns or to ensure compliance with planning requirements. Responding promptly and comprehensively to these requests helps keep your application on track. This may involve amending plans, providing further reports, or offering additional justification for your proposal.

6. Determination - After assessment, the council will make a decision to approve, approve with deferred commencement conditions, or refuse the application. Approval is often just one step in the process. You may also need to obtain further approvals or certifications before starting work. This can include additional permits, construction certificates, issued by accredited certifiers. Your town planner and certifier will work together to ensure all these requirements are met so your project complies with both planning and building regulations.

If the DA is refused, you have options to request a review of the decision or to appeal the decision. Your town planner can guide you through these next steps and help explore alternative options if needed.

How Pac Planning Supports Your DA Journey

Navigating the DA process with confidence requires expert knowledge and clear communication. At Pac Planning, we guide you through every step — from initial feasibility to lodgement and beyond.

Our tailored approach means we:

• Assess your site and planning controls thoroughly

• Prepare clear, compliant planning documents including Statements of Environmental Effects

• Communicate proactively with council to manage requests and reduce delays

• Provide practical advice to keep your project on track

By partnering with Pac Planning, you gain a trusted advisor dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for your development.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the Development Application process is the first step to a successful project. While the paperwork and regulations can seem daunting, expert support makes all the difference. If you’re considering a development in NSW, contact Pac Planning for advice and assistance. Together, we’ll navigate the planning process with clarity and confidence.

Pac Planning | Tailored. Approachable. Trusted.

Serving Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Port Stephens, Cessnock, Singleton and beyond.