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How Much Does a Development Application (DA) Cost in NSW?
If you're planning a residential or commercial project, you may want to know the cost of a DA in NSW.
4 min read


How to Legalise an Unapproved Secondary Dwelling - A Central Coast Council NSW Case Study
Under NSW law (the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979), any structure built or altered without the required permits is considered illegal.
25 min read


Can I Lodge a DA by Myself in NSW?
It’s crucial that when lodging a DA in NSW you provide the necessary documents that meet your council’s formatting and technical requirements.
4 min read


Your Guide: CDC Controls for Residential Development in NSW
In NSW, complying development for residential projects is regulated under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying...
4 min read


How Do I Know If My Proposed Use is “Permitted With Consent”
Not sure if your proposed use is permitted with consent? Learn how to check NSW zoning, what it means, and how expert planning advice helps get your DA approved.
2 min read


What Is a Commercial Change of Use?
What is a commercial change of use in NSW? Learn how zoning and planning rules affect your business, and when you need council approval to legally operate a new use.
2 min read


Can I Submit a DA Without Plans?
Can you lodge a DA in NSW without plans? Find out why scaled drawings are essential, what councils require, and how town planning advice ensures your application is complete and compliant.
2 min read


Do I Need a Heritage Impact Statement for My DA in NSW?
Do you need a heritage impact statement for your DA in NSW? Learn when it’s required, what it covers, and how expert town planning support can help get council approval.
2 min read


Navigating Development with Canterbury-Bankstown Council: Your Local Planning Guide
The Canterbury-Bankstown LEP 2023 outlines the fundamental zoning and permissible land uses, alongside key development standards such as height of buildings and floor space ratio.
Complementing this, the comprehensive Canterbury-Bankstown DCP 2023 provides more granular design guidelines and specific requirements for a wide array of development types.
2 min read


Unlocking Value: Strata Subdivision on Land Parcels in NSW
Unlike traditional Torrens Title subdivision, which creates entirely separate land parcels, strata subdivision allows for the creation of individual titles for units or dwellings that share common property.
2 min read


Harnessing the Power of a Secondary Dwelling in NSW
A secondary dwelling is a self-contained unit located on the same lot as a principal dwelling. It can be attached, separate, or even contained within the main home.
It cannot be subdivided and sold independently, maintaining its ancillary role to the main residence.
2 min read


What Is a Statement of Environmental Effects (SoEE) in NSW?
A Statement of Environmental Effects addresses relevant NSW planning instruments, such as the Local Environmental Plan (LEP), Development Control Plan (DCP) and State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPPs).
2 min read


DA Approval Sydney: Maximising Success with the NSW Planning Portal
For those seeking initial planning advice, the Spatial Viewer empowers you to conduct your own preliminary due diligence.
Understanding the specific constraints and opportunities of your property early on can save significant time and resources.
2 min read


Subdivision in NSW: Torrens Title vs Strata Title Explained
Whether you're planning a dual occupancy, townhouses or a small unit block, understanding the type of subdivision you need is essential.
The two most common subdivision types in NSW are Torrens title and Strata title.
2 min read


What Do I Do If My Site Has a Flood or Bushfire Overlay?
What if your site has a flood or bushfire overlay? Learn what reports are required, how to design for safety, and how expert planning advice helps secure your DA approval.
2 min read


Can I Use a Warehouse as a Gym?
Can you use a warehouse for a gym in NSW? Find out what planning rules apply, when council approval is required, and how expert town planning advice can fast-track your DA.
2 min read


Can You Get Approval for Something That Doesn’t Comply With the DCP?
Can you get council approval if your plans don’t comply with the DCP? Learn how variations are assessed and why expert planning advice matters in NSW.
2 min read


What’s the Cost of Lodging a DA with Council?
What’s the cost of lodging a DA in NSW? Learn how council calculates fees, what affects pricing, and how planning advice helps manage costs and prevent avoidable delays.
2 min read


Can I Turn a Retail Space Into an Office Without Council Approval?
Can you turn a retail shop into an office without council approval in NSW? Learn what triggers a DA, when exemptions apply and how town planning advice can streamline the process.
2 min read


Secondary Dwellings (Granny Flats) in NSW: A Complete Homeowner’s Guide
In NSW, a secondary dwelling (often called a granny flat) is defined as a self-contained home on the same lot as a principal house.
37 min read
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