Best Town Planners for Home Renovations Near Me

If you're planning a home renovation, extension or alteration, securing council approval is a crucial step.

A town planner can guide you through the Development Application (DA) or Complying Development Certificate (CDC) process, ensuring your project meets local planning laws.

Here are the top-rated town planning firms that specialise in home alterations and additions.

1. StraightLine Planning

🏠 Expertise: DA & CDC Approvals for Home Extensions

StraightLine Planning is a leading town planning consultancy specialising in residential renovations and home extensions. They have extensive experience in:

✔ Feasibility Assessments: Helps homeowners determine if their renovation is likely to be approved before investing in full application costs.

✔ DA & CDC Approvals: Prepares and lodges applications for home alterations, extensions, and additions.

✔ Council Negotiations: Works directly with councils to resolve zoning or compliance issues that could delay approvals.

✔ Building Information Certificates (BICs): Assists with legalising unauthorised renovations.

🔹 Best for: Homeowners looking for a strategic approach to navigating complex planning controls and securing approvals efficiently.

2. TRANPLAN | Town Planners & Heritage Consultants

🏡 Expertise: Town Planning & Heritage Approvals

TRANPLAN Sydney specialises in residential renovations, including projects involving heritage conservation and zoning restrictions. Their services include:

✔ Dual Occupancies & Granny Flats: Expertise in multi-dwelling housing approvals.

✔ Heritage Planning: Ensures renovations comply with heritage conservation area regulations.

✔ Zoning & Council Approvals: Experienced in dealing with Sydney councils.

🔹 Best for: Homeowners renovating in a heritage area or those looking to build granny flats or dual occupancies.

3. Myriad Town Planning & Development Consultants

📋 Expertise: Residential Planning Approvals Across NSW

Myriad Town Planning offers support for homeowners needing council approvals for renovations. Their expertise includes:

✔ Development Applications (DAs) for Alterations & Additions 

✔ DA Modifications – Helps homeowners modify existing approved plans if changes are needed mid-project.

✔ Council Meeting Representation – Provides professional support during council reviews and addresses objections from neighbours or authorities.

🔹 Best for: Homeowners with council negotiations and approval challenges.

4. CMY Planning Services

🏗 Expertise: Fast-Tracked Approvals for Home Extensions

CMY Planning Services work with both complying and non-complying developments, including:

✔ Preliminary Planning Assessments – Evaluates the likelihood of approval before a DA submission.

✔ DA Preparation & Lodgment – Handles complex renovation applications that don’t meet exempt development criteria.

✔ Non-Complying Development Applications – Finds solutions for homes that exceed height, floor space, or setback requirements.

🔹 Best for: Homeowners facing non-compliance challenges with their renovation plans.

5. BuildCert

🛠 Expertise: Planning & Building Certification

BuildCert combines town planning expertise with building certification services, making them an excellent choice for renovation approvals. Their services include:

✔ DA & CDC Approvals for Home Extensions – Helps homeowners choose the best approval pathway for their project.

✔ Building Compliance & Certification – Ensures renovations meet Building Code of Australia (BCA) and council requirements.

✔ CDC Processing – Provides approvals for renovations that meet exempt development criteria.

🔹 Best for: Homeowners needing planning approval and building certification services.

Why Hire a Town Planner for a Home Renovation?

✅ Increases Approval Chances: Town planners ensure your application complies with local zoning laws, reducing council rejections.

✅ Saves Time & Money: Identifies potential issues before lodgment, preventing costly delays.

✅ Handles Council Negotiations: Town planners can communicate with council officers on your behalf to resolve compliance concerns.

✅ Optimises Design for Approval: Ensures your renovation plan meets regulations while maximising your property’s development potential.

✅ Supports Complex Projects: Helps navigate heritage restrictions, zoning variances, and BIC applications for unauthorised renovations.

How to Choose the Right Town Planner for Your Renovation

When selecting a town planner for your home extension or renovation, consider:

✔ Experience with Your Local Council – Different councils have different planning controls. Choose a planner familiar with your area.

✔ Specialisation in Residential Projects – Some planners focus on commercial developments. Ensure they specialise in home renovations.

✔ Transparent Pricing – Ask for a clear breakdown of fees before committing.

✔ Communication & Responsiveness – A good planner should provide regular updates and clear guidance.