Development application process

The Department of Planning, Industry and Environment have also developed 'Your guide to the Development Application Process' to assist in making the process faster and easier.

We are also here to help, so please reach out if you need extra support by submitting a development enquiry.

Also find out about our fast track development process and the different development types.

Development applications are notified as set out in our Community Engagement Strategy. This strategy provides a guideline on how long we have applications on notification and who we notify (normally adjoining land owners).

During this time neighbours and members of the community can provide submissions on the application.

All those who make a submission are notified of the outcome of the application.

To make a submission, view our application tracker or be kept informed on DAs lodged in your local area.

Development applications are assessed with regard to Section 4.15 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

This includes such matters as:

1. The provisions of any relevant planning instruments or CN guidelines (Development Control Plans)
2. The likely environmental, social or economic impacts of the development in the locality
3. The suitability of the site for the development
4. Any submissions made in response to public notification of the development
5. The public interest.

You can track progress of your application at any time through the application tracker.

Processing times depend on the complexity of the development.

Applicants will be sent a formal notice of determination to let them know the outcome of their application. This is sent to you via the NSW Planning Portal.

Approvals are often subject to certain conditions and timeframes, which you will need to make sure you understand and follow.

If your development application is refused you can request a review through the NSW Planning Portal no later than 28 days after the determination was made.

After you have received an approval and if you are wanting to start to build, you will need to get a Construction Certificate. 

If you later want to modify your approval, this will have to be done through the NSW Planning Portal.

Applications to modify an approval are only for when there are small changes that result in the development being substantially the same as the originally approved development.

The types of modifications that can be applied for include:

• Section 4.55 (1) - involving minor error, misdescription or miscalculation only
• Section 4.55 (1A) - involving minimal environmental impact
• Section 4.55 (2) - other modifications
• Section 4.56 - modification of consent granted by the Land & Environment Court

If the outcome will be substantially different, you will need to submit a new development application.