Do I Need Mechanical and Electrical Layouts for my DA?

In many cases, yes.

While mechanical and electrical (M&E) layouts are not always mandatory for every development application, they are often required for complex residential, commercial or mixed-use projects in New South Wales.

They help council assess functionality, compliance and service integration.

At Town Planning Sydney, we prepare coordinated M&E layouts that align with architectural drawings to support smooth DA approval.

Here’s what you need to know.

1. What are mechanical and electrical layouts?

Mechanical layouts show the location and specification of air conditioning units, ventilation systems, exhaust fans, ducting and mechanical plant.

Electrical layouts show lighting, power points, switchboards, fire alarms, data cabling and other electrical infrastructure.

2. Residential projects may not need full M&E plans at DA stage

For small residential DAs, councils typically assess planning and design, not detailed M&E services.

Basic information such as hot water system locations or air conditioning units can often be shown on the site or floor plans.

3. Commercial projects often require detailed layouts

For retail, hospitality, office and industrial fit-outs, M&E layouts help demonstrate that the design meets building code and operational requirements.

We prepare these in coordination with your architectural plans so they are clear and consistent.

4. Councils may request M&E details to confirm compliance

If your proposal includes significant plant or service areas, council may request layouts to check compliance with NSW planning controls.

This is common where rooftop mechanical equipment could impact height limits or visual amenity.

5. Mechanical plans help assess noise and ventilation impacts

Exhaust systems, HVAC units and ventilation stacks may need to be assessed for noise or odour impacts.

Our planning consultants integrate mechanical layouts with acoustic or environmental reports when required.

6. Electrical layouts can help with fire safety and accessibility compliance

For larger projects, showing the location of lighting, alarms and power points can support compliance with fire safety standards and accessibility guidelines.

This is especially important in public buildings and commercial fit-outs.

7. M&E plans should match the development application drawings

A common mistake is submitting M&E layouts that conflict with architectural or site plans.

We coordinate every drawing to ensure all documentation tells the same story to council.

8. Getting professional planning advice can save time

Not every DA needs full M&E plans at lodgement, but knowing when they are required can prevent delays.

Our planning advice process includes reviewing your project against council’s submission checklist and advising whether M&E drawings will strengthen your application.

In short, M&E layouts can be a valuable part of your development application, especially for commercial projects.

With Town Planning Sydney, you get integrated town planning and drafting services to make sure every technical detail supports your NSW planning compliance and speeds up council approval.