Project Status: When you need to do this
A development application (DA) is a formal request to build or modify your home or business site. Most development in the City of Sydney area requires approval.
When you have prepared your application, lodge the DA online.
Application processing times
Our usual service levels and application assessment times may be impacted due to current staff shortages.
These shortages are due to Covid-19, influenza, leave and vacancies. Many of these positions are highly technical and cannot be filled on a short-term basis.
We will continue to assess applications as quickly as possible. We appreciate your patience in the meantime.
What you need to do
Lodge your application with the NSW Planning Portal
After checking our requirements, all applications must be made through the NSW Planning Portal. We won’t accept applications by email or post.
Lodge DA with NSW Planning Portal
It’s your responsibility to provide all required information with enough detail for a decision to be made. Getting this right will save time and money.
We’ll aim to review your application within 2 business days of receiving it. Timeframes are a guide only.
If more information is required, we’ll be in touch.
When your application is ready to proceed, we’ll request payment. The application will only be lodged once payment is received.
Before you start
Getting the first step right means you’re likely to have a smooth application process.
How to prepare your development application
Your development will need to align with the site’s characteristics and the planning controls that apply to it.
To prepare your application, you may also need to enlist specialists such as an architect, engineer or land surveyor.
It’s recommended to meet with a duty planner before lodging your application.
The NSW Planning Portal also has a helpful guide to the development application process.
After you finish
Assessment
We’ll assess your application once it has been lodged. If required, your application will be placed on exhibition to allow the public to comment on your proposal. We may need to visit the site and will be in touch if access is needed.
When assessing an application, we consider:
- relevant planning controls and conditions
- likely impacts of the development
- suitability of the site
- any comments and objections
- the public interest
We may request additional information from you and also get advice from specialists at the City. We’ll let you know if changes need to be made to the proposal.
Integrated development requires approval from another authority, such as Road and Maritime Services. Applications for integrated development require an additional fee paid to the relevant authority. This will be requested through the NSW Planning Portal after you lodge your application.
The decision
For small developments, most decisions are made at a staff level.
The Local Planning Panel determines applications for significant development. The Central Sydney Planning Committee determines applications over $50 million. We’ll inform you if your application will be determined at these meetings, open to the public in the Council Chambers at Sydney Town Hall.
There are 3 possible outcomes for an application:
- Development consent granted, with possible conditions
- Refusal with reasons
- Deferred commencement consent. One or more important issues must be addressed before consent is granted. This is a rare outcome.
Conditions of consent can modify your plans which may add costs to your project.
If your application is refused, you can request a review of determination, modify and relodge your application, or take it to the Land and Environment Court.
To make changes to your approved lodgement, you can submit a modification of consent.
