What should be included in a full DA package?

In NSW, a full development application (DA) package must include all the documents and plans needed for council to properly assess your proposal.

Missing or incomplete files are one of the most common causes of delays and requests for further information.

Whether you are lodging a DA for a new home, granny flat, duplex or commercial change of use, a complete submission is essential for smooth processing and DA approval.

At the very least, your DA package must include scaled architectural plans, such as a site plan, floor plans, elevations, and sections.

These must clearly show setbacks, building height, private open space, and how the development fits on the site.

A town planner NSW based can review the plans to ensure they comply with the Development Control Plan (DCP) and other NSW planning rules before submission.

You’ll also need a statement of environmental effects for NSW DA, which outlines how the proposal complies with planning policies, addresses impacts, and meets the zone objectives.

This document is prepared by a planning consultant, and it forms the backbone of the DA. In one recent project in Northern NSW, we supported a client building a detached dual occupancy.

Alongside the statement, we coordinated a bushfire assessment, drainage report, and BASIX certificate to complete the submission.

Depending on the site, other supporting reports may be required. This can include a heritage impact statement NSW town planning, an arborist report, traffic or parking assessment, and a stormwater concept plan.

If your proposal does not meet one or more development standards, you may also need a Clause 4.6 variation request NSW with proper planning justification.

Our town planning services for residential development NSW ensure that all documents are aligned and complete before lodging with council.

Whether you are preparing a council submission for secondary dwelling NSW or applying for a planning permit NSW for a commercial project, the same level of documentation is expected.

For commercial change of use projects, floor layout and operational details must be clear and supported by relevant specialist input.

Working with a town planner near me specialising in NSW DCP ensures you meet council’s document checklist and avoid unnecessary RFIs. We advise clients early in the process on what information will be required, how to prepare it, and what pitfalls to avoid.

If you are unsure how to get a DA approved in NSW, it starts with submitting a complete and well-prepared application that addresses both policy and design.