Development applications · NSW
Development Applications. Considered from the outset.
Planning strategy, Statements of Environmental Effects (SEE) and DA preparation support for NSW projects, with a focus on the planning merits, documentation and likely assessment issues.
The approach
Planning support for the DA process
A Development Application (DA) asks a consent authority, commonly the local Council, to assess a proposal against the relevant planning framework. Clear supporting documentation can help the assessing officer understand what is proposed and how relevant impacts are addressed.
Planning Approvals provides development application planning services for homeowners and project professionals, including preparation of Statements of Environmental Effects, planning assessments, and assistance with assembling and lodging application documentation where included in the agreed scope.
Our services
Where we can assist
Development strategy and design review
Review the proposed development against relevant planning instruments and Council controls, and identify matters worth resolving before lodgement.
Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE)
Prepare an SEE addressing the applicable planning provisions and relevant environmental, built-form and neighbourhood impacts.
Other planning documentation
Prepare or coordinate planning assessments, design analyses and streetscape character material where needed for the proposal.
DA preparation and lodgement
Review consultants' reports and drawings, assist with document compilation and support lodgement through the NSW Planning Portal as agreed.
Project outcomes
During Council assessment
Council may request additional information or design clarification after lodgement. We can provide planning input in response to assessment matters where engaged to do so. Specialist reports, design revisions and Council requests for information may involve additional work or separate consultants.
The consent authority makes the decision. No consultant can guarantee that consent will be granted or that a particular assessment timeframe will apply.
How it works
From enquiry to clear advice.
A practical process suited to the stage and complexity of your project.
Review the site and proposal
We consider applicable controls, likely assessment questions and supporting-document requirements.
Prepare the planning documentation
The agreed planning reports and supporting assessments are prepared and coordinated with the drawings.
Lodge or support assessment
Where included, we assist with Planning Portal lodgement and subsequent planning matters.
Common questions
Good questions to ask early.
What is a Statement of Environmental Effects?
An SEE is a document explaining the proposal, its relevant planning context, potential environmental impacts and how those impacts are addressed. It commonly supports a local Development Application.
Do you lodge Development Applications?
We can assist with compiling and lodging a DA on the NSW Planning Portal when this is part of the agreed scope.
Can you respond if Council requests further information?
Planning input can be provided under an agreed additional scope. Technical reports or plan revisions may need to be prepared by the relevant project consultants.
Further information from official NSW Government sources:
Start here
Ready to discuss your project?
Send us the basics. If you already have a survey, plans, sketches or supporting documents, include them too.