What is a Notification Plan for Development Applications in NSW?

Understanding Notification Plans

A Notification Plan is a document that outlines how and when the community will be informed about specific activities or developments in New South Wales (NSW).

These plans are essential for transparency, community engagement, and legal compliance, ensuring residents are aware of proposed developments that may impact them.

Why are Notification Plans Important?

A Notification Plan serves three key purposes:

✅ Informing the community – Ensures residents know about proposed developments.

✅ Encouraging feedback – Provides an opportunity for public input.

✅ Meeting legal requirements – Fulfills obligations under 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

• Specifies which areas require public notification, such as parks, schools, and community spaces.

2. User Information

• Identifies the regular users of public spaces and estimates how often these areas are used.

3. Notification Methods and Timing

• Outlines how and when the community will be informed, including:

  
  

  📌 Website postings – Updates on the council’s website.

  
  

  📌 Newspaper notices – Advertisements in local newspapers.

  
  

  📌 Personal notifications – Letters or emails to nearby residents.

4. Access to Information

• Explains where and how residents can view the Notification Plan and stay informed.

5. Contact Information

• Provides council contact details for inquiries or concerns.

6. Special Protection Measures

• Describes any additional precautions for sensitive areas (e.g., schools, playgrounds) when applicable.

7. Activity Details

• Lists specifics such as pesticide use, including product names and intended purposes.

Notification Plans for Development Applications (DAs)

For Development Applications (DAs) in NSW, a Notification Plan ensures that communities are aware of proposed developments and have time to respond.

Categories of Development & Notification Requirements

🔹 Complying Development – Minor projects (e.g., home additions) may require pre-approval notifications to neighbours within 20 metres.

🔹 Larger Developments – Major projects often require longer notification periods and extensive community consultation.

Public Notification Periods

The plan specifies how long the community has to provide feedback:

📅 Metropolitan areas – Minimum 14-day notification before issuing a Complying Development Certificate (CDC).

📅 Regional & Rural areas – Formal notification may not be required, but discussions with neighbours are encouraged.

Methods of Community Notification

📌 Written notices – Delivered in person, via letterbox drop, or by mail.

📌 Online notifications – Posted on council websites or social media.

Why Notification Plans Matter

Notification Plans are not just administrative requirements—they play a critical role in community engagement and transparency.

By keeping residents informed, these plans:

✅ Empower the community – Residents can voice opinions or concerns.

✅ Improve decision-making – Councils receive valuable feedback from affected parties.

✅ Build trust – Encourages collaboration between councils, developers, and the public.

For example, if a new housing development is planned in your area, the Notification Plan will ensure you receive updates on:

• The project details and potential impacts.

• How and where to provide feedback (e.g., community meetings, written submissions).

How to Access Notification Plans

🔹 Visit your local council’s website – Most Notification Plans are available online.

🔹 Contact your local council – If you need assistance or additional information.

Stay Informed & Have Your Say

If you want to stay updated on developments in your area, regularly check council notifications and participate in community consultations.

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