A Planning Assessment Report is a detailed document prepared to support a Building Information Certificate (BIC) Application, required seeking approval for works completed without prior development consent or authorisation.
The report evaluates whether the unapproved works comply with applicable planning legislation, development controls and local council requirements.

The purpose of the report is to demonstrate that the completed works align with planning laws and policies or, if minor non-compliances exist, how these can be mitigated (or justified) to meet compliance requirements or zone objectives.
This report helps councils assess whether the structure can remain or whether rectification works or additional conditions are required.
What are the key components of a Planning Assessment Report for a BIC Application?
Description of the Works
Details of the unauthorised works, including their size, location, materials, and purpose.
Information about the property's context, such as zoning, land use, and surrounding environment.
Assessment Against Planning Legislation
Evaluation of compliance with:
Local Environmental Plan (LEP): Zoning permissibility, land use compatibility, and any relevant development standards.
Development Control Plan (DCP): Assessment of setbacks, height, site coverage, landscaping, and other design controls.
State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPPs): Any state-specific controls applicable to the works, such as SEPP (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008.
Identification of Non-Compliances
Detailed analysis of areas where the works deviate from applicable standards (e.g., setbacks, building height, floor space ratio).
Explanation of why the non-compliances occurred and their potential impact on neighbours, the streetscape, or the environment.
Justification for Retrospective Approval
Argument supporting why the unauthorised works should be approved:
Works pose no environmental, safety, or amenity impacts.
Works align with the overarching objectives of the LEP and DCP, even if minor variations exist.
Mitigation measures, if required, can address any identified issues.
Compliance with the Building Code of Australia (BCA)
Assessment of whether the works meet structural, fire safety, and accessibility standards under the BCA.
Recommendation for rectification works if compliance issues are identified.
Visual and Amenity Impact
Evaluation of how the works affect the character of the area, the streetscape, and neighbouring properties.
Inclusion of photographs or diagrams to illustrate the works in their current state.
Consultation with Specialists (if required)
Reference to supporting documents, such as a structural engineer's report, bushfire assessment, acoustic report, or heritage impact statement, if applicable.
Recommendations
Suggestions for any conditions the council could impose to approve the works, such as minor alterations or ongoing maintenance.

Why is a Planning Assessment Report Required?
A Planning Assessment Report is crucial in a BIC application because it:
Provides the council with a comprehensive understanding of the unauthorised works.
Demonstrates that the works are consistent with planning principles and policy objectives.
Justifies why the works should be approved retrospectively, minimising the risk of demolition orders or enforcement action.
Ensures that all relevant legislation, including the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (NSW) and local planning controls, are addressed.
Final Notes
A Planning Assessment Report is an essential tool for gaining retrospective approval under a Building Information Certificate.
It helps the applicant show compliance with planning laws, addresses any concerns raised by the unauthorised nature of the works, and ensures that councils have the necessary information to assess the application fairly and thoroughly.
Engaging a professional town planner or certifier to prepare the report increases the likelihood of a successful outcome.
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