If you're planning a development project in New South Wales (NSW) - whether it's a home extension, a new commercial building, or even a subdivision - you’ve probably come across the term Development Application (DA).
But what exactly is a DA, and why is it essential for your project? Let’s break it down.
What is a Development Application (DA)?
A Development Application (DA) is a formal request to your local council seeking approval for your proposed development.
It's a vital part of the planning process in NSW, ensuring that your project complies with local regulations, zoning requirements and broader environmental and community standards.
Submitting a DA involves providing detailed information about your proposed development, such as its size, location, design and intended use.

Councils assess DAs based on several key planning instruments, including:
Local Environmental Plans (LEPs):Â These are legal documents that outline zoning and land use controls for specific areas. LEPs determine what types of development are permissible on your property and set standards for things like building heights, setbacks, and densities.
Development Control Plans (DCPs):Â These provide additional guidelines to complement LEPs, focusing on finer details such as building design, landscaping, and environmental considerations.
State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPPs):Â These policies address state-level planning priorities, such as housing, heritage, and environmental protection, and apply to specific types of developments or locations.
Understanding these instruments is crucial because they form the framework against which your DA will be assessed.
Why Do You Need a DA?
A DA is required for most types of development that don't qualify as exempt or complying development under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008. Here are the main reasons you need a DA:
1. Legal Compliance
Submitting a DA ensures your project adheres to the planning rules set out in the relevant LEP, DCP, and SEPP.
For example, if your property is zoned for residential use, the LEP will dictate what types of residential development are permissible.
Failing to secure DA approval can result in legal action, fines or even orders to demolish unauthorised work.
2. Environmental and Community Standards
DAs often require an assessment of your project’s environmental impact.
For almost all developments, you will need to submit a Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE)Â or an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).
These documents demonstrate how your project will mitigate potential impacts on the environment and the local community.

3. Tailored Conditions of Approval
Through the DA process, councils can impose conditions to ensure your development aligns with local needs and expectations.
For instance, they might require specific landscaping elements, noise mitigation measures or waste management strategies to minimise disruption to the community.
4. Transparency and Accountability
The DA process often includes a public consultation period, allowing neighbours and stakeholders to provide feedback on your proposal.
This provides level of transparency and ensures that developments are fair and considerate of community interests.
How Do You Submit a DA?
A simplified overview of the DA process:
Research and Planning Start by reviewing the LEP and DCP for your area, which you can access via your local council’s website or the NSW Planning Portal. Use the Spatial Viewer tool on the Portal to check zoning and other constraints on your property.
Prepare Your Application A complete DA typically includes:
Site and floor plans.
Elevations and sections.
A Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE).
Landscaping plans (if applicable).
Other supporting documents like a Waste Management Plan or traffic impact assessment.
Submit via the NSW Planning Portal All DAs in NSW must be submitted online through the NSW Planning Portal. This platform streamlines the process and allows you to track your application’s progress.
Assessment and Determination Once submitted, your DA will be assessed by council planners against the relevant LEP, DCP, and SEPP. Councils may also consider public feedback before issuing their determination.
When Might You Not Need a DA?
Not all developments require a DA. Some projects qualify as exempt development, meaning they are minor works that don’t need approval (e.g., small garden sheds or fences).
Others may fall under complying development, which is a fast-tracked approval process for projects that meet pre-set standards outlined in the SEPP.

How StraightLine Planning Can Help
Navigating the DA process can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone.
At StraightLine Planning, our experienced Town Planners NSWÂ specialise in preparing and managing Development Applications, ensuring your project complies with all relevant planning instruments.
From reviewing LEPs and DCPs to crafting comprehensive SEEs and drafting full Architectural Drawing Sets, we handle the details so you can focus on bringing your vision to life.
Whether you’re planning a home renovation or a commercial development, we’ll guide you through every step of the DA process.
Contact us today to streamline your application and get your project approved with confidence.
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