Do I need to lodge a Development Application?

Not all development requires approval of a Development Application (DA), it depends on the type of development you're proposing.

Exempt development (no DA required)

Exempt development is very low impact development or minor renovation work which satisfies pre-specified requirements. If your development meets the requirements, it will not require development approval. Even if your project is considered to be an exempt development, other approvals may be required.

To determine if your development is considered exempt, visit the NSW Legislation website.

Complying development (fast track approval)

Complying development is a combined planning and construction approval. Straightforward development that meets the pre-specified requirements are eligible for fast-track approval, without the need for a full development application.

To determine if your project is considered complying development, visit the NSW State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008

If your project is considered complying, you'll need to obtain a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) from either Council or a private certifier. Other approvals may also be required.

If your development does not comply as an Exempt or Complying development then lodge a DA

If your project does not satisfy the pre-specified requirements, and cannot be considered as exempt or complying development, you will need to obtain development consent for your proposal (submit a DA).  

If you think your development may be permitted without consent or you're unsure about the categories, we encourage you to contact us to discuss.

Related information

• NSW Planning Portal - Your guide to the DA process
• NSW Government Department of Planning, Industry and Environment
• NSW Planning Portal – Building and Renovating in NSW
• NSW State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008
• Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000 (NSW)