How to Get Renovations and Home Extensions Approved in NSW

Renovating or extending your home can enhance its functionality, aesthetic appeal and value.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting a Development Application (DA) approved for your renovation or home extension.

Step 1: Preparation

1. Determine if You Need a DA

   • Start by confirming whether your renovation or extension qualifies as exempt or complying development. If it does, a DA may not be necessary.

   • Check your local council’s specific requirements to see if your proposed changes align with their Local Environmental Plan (LEP) and Development Control Plan (DCP).

2. Gather Essential Documentation A thorough application requires the following:

   • Architectural Plans: These include floor plans, elevations and section views of your proposed renovation.

   • Site Plan and Survey Plan: A detailed layout of your property showing boundaries, structures and proposed changes.

   • Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE): A report outlining how your project impacts the environment and how you’ll mitigate those effects.

   • BASIX Certificate: For projects exceeding $50,000, this certificate demonstrates compliance with sustainability requirements for energy and water efficiency.

3. Additional Reports Depending on the scope of your project, you may need:

   • Landscape plans to show how the renovation integrates with outdoor spaces.

   • Stormwater or drainage plans if your project affects water flow.

   • Specific assessments, such as a heritage impact statement, for properties in heritage areas.

Step 2: Submission Process

1. Pre-Lodgement Consultation

   • Meet with a Council Duty Planner to discuss your proposal and address any potential concerns early.

   • Obtain a Section 10.7 Planning Certificate to identify constraints on your property, such as easements or heritage overlays.

2. Prepare and Lodge Your Application

   • Complete the DA form via the NSW Planning Portal.

   • Submit all required plans, documentation, and fees electronically through the portal.

   • Ensure your application is comprehensive to avoid delays.

3. Assessment and Determination

   • Once submitted, your application will be reviewed by council officers.

   • Neighbours may be notified about your proposal and invited to provide feedback. If objections are raised, you’ll have the opportunity to respond and adjust your plans.

   • The council may request additional information or modifications to ensure compliance with local planning controls.

   
   

Step 3: Key Considerations

1. Structural Changes

   • If your project involves alterations to load-bearing walls or significant structural components, you’ll need approval from a structural engineer and council.

2. Size and Setbacks

   • Extensions must comply with council-imposed size and setback requirements to ensure adequate separation from boundaries and neighbouring properties.

3. Floor Space Ratio (FSR)

   • Your extension must align with your council’s FSR requirements, which dictate the allowable building size relative to your lot size. If you wish to exceed these limits, you’ll need to make a strong case to council.

4. Neighbour Impact

   • Address potential issues like overshadowing, privacy, and visual impact to minimise objections from neighbours.

5. Stormwater Management

   • Ensure your project doesn’t interfere with existing council drains or easements. Submit a detailed stormwater plan to show compliance.

   
   

Step 4: Post-Approval Compliance

Once your DA is approved, you’ll need to follow these steps to move forward:

1. Obtain a Construction Certificate

   • Before construction begins, secure a Construction Certificate to confirm compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC).

2. Schedule Inspections

   • Arrange for council or private certifier inspections during construction to ensure all work adheres to approved plans.

3. Apply for an Occupation Certificate

   • Upon completion, apply for an Occupation Certificate to confirm your renovation or extension is safe and meets regulatory standards.

   
   

Common Challenges and How to Address Them

1. Building Envelope

   • If your extension height exceeds what neighbours are comfortable with, consult with your council to explore design adjustments that balance your needs with neighbourhood concerns.

2. Floor Space Ratio

   • If your project exceeds the allowed FSR, engage a town planner to help negotiate a solution with council or prepare a variation request.

3. Neighbour Objections

   • Even if you’ve notified neighbours informally, council’s public notification process may still lead to objections. Respond diplomatically and address their concerns to maintain good relationships and increase the likelihood of approval.

4. Heritage Considerations

   • Extending a heritage-listed property requires a sensitive approach. Ensure your design respects the property’s character, and include a detailed heritage impact statement with your application.

5. Stormwater Issues

   • If your site overlaps with a council drain, revise your stormwater and drainage plans to demonstrate that your extension won’t cause flooding or infrastructure issues.