When it comes to development applications (DAs) in NSW, transparency and community engagement are key.
One of the tools used to ensure this is the Notification Plan.
But what exactly is a Notification Plan, and why is it important?
What is a Notification Plan?
A Notification Plan is a document that outlines how and when the community will be informed about certain activities or developments in NSW.
Whether it’s a new housing development, a commercial project or even pesticide applications in public spaces, Notification Plans ensure that the community is kept in the loop.
The plan serves several important purposes:
Informing the community: It ensures that residents are aware of proposed developments or activities that may affect them.
Encouraging feedback: It provides a platform for the community to voice their opinions, which can influence final decisions.
Meeting legal requirements: It fulfils the community’s right to know about certain activities, as mandated by legislation like the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

Key Components of a Notification Plan
A well-structured Notification Plan typically includes the following elements:
1. Public Places Covered
The plan specifies which public areas are subject to notification requirements. This could include parks, schools or other community spaces.
2. User Information
It identifies the regular users of these public places and provides estimates of how often these spaces are used. This helps in understanding the potential impact of the proposed activity or development.
3. Notification Methods and Timing
The plan outlines how and when the community will be informed. This could include:
Website postings: Information posted on the council’s website.
Newspaper notices: Advertisements in local newspapers.
Personal notifications: Letters or emails sent to adjoining landholders or residents.
4. Access to Information
The plan explains how the community can access the document and obtain additional information about the notification arrangements. This ensures transparency and allows residents to stay informed.
5. Contact Information
It includes contact details for inquiries related to the plan, making it easy for community members to ask questions or raise concerns.
6. Special Protection Measures
For activities like pesticide applications, the plan describes any special precautions taken near sensitive areas, such as schools or playgrounds.
7. Activity Details
For specific activities, such as pesticide use, the plan includes details like the names of the products being used and their intended purposes.
Notification Plans for Development Applications
When it comes to development applications (DAs), Notification Plans play a crucial role in ensuring that the community is aware of proposed developments. Here’s what you can expect:
Categories of Development
The plan will outline different categories of development and their corresponding notification procedures. For example:
Complying development: This type of development, which includes straightforward building work like new homes or additions, may require pre-approval notification to neighbours within a 20-metre radius.
Larger developments: More significant projects may require longer notification periods and more extensive community consultation.
Public Notification Periods
The plan will specify the length of time the community has to provide feedback. For example:
In metropolitan areas, neighbours must be notified at least 14 days before a complying development certificate is issued.
In regional and rural areas, formal notification may not be required, but early discussions with neighbours are encouraged.
Methods of Notification
The plan will detail how the community will be informed. This could include:
Written notices: Delivered in person, via letterbox drop, or through the post.
Online notifications: Posted on the council’s website or through social media channels.

Why Notification Plans Matter
Notification Plans are more than just a bureaucratic requirement—they are a vital tool for community engagement.
By keeping residents informed, these plans ensure that everyone has a chance to voice their opinions and concerns.
This not only leads to better decision-making but also helps build trust between the community and local authorities.
For example, if a new housing development is proposed in your area, the Notification Plan will ensure that you are informed about the project, its potential impact and how you can provide feedback.
This allows you to take appropriate action if necessary, whether that’s attending a community meeting, submitting a formal comment or simply staying informed.
How to Access Notification Plans
Notification Plans are typically available on your local council’s website.
If you’re unsure where to find them, you can always contact your council directly for more information.
The plan will provide details on how to access additional information and who to contact if you have any questions.
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