You will require this approval if you intend to undertake development activities in New South Wales. This approval can be provided either through a Development Consent or a Complying Development Certificate, which cover a range of activities that include:
- changing the use of land
- subdividing land
- undertaking building and construction work on public or private property (apart from public roads, which is covered by a separate approval)
- demolition of a building or work
- constructing a temporary entertainment structure.
Before you apply for a Development Consent or Complying Development Certificate, it is recommended that you contact Council for a Planning Certificate. This document contains important information about the property involved, such as environmental, heritage or planning restrictions.
There are three different categories of development in New South Wales:
- Exempt Development - this includes activities such as minor, do-it-yourself, renovation work. For example, replacing the tiles in your bathroom or erecting a pre-fabricated structure such as a garden shed. Exempt development activities do not require Council approval.
- Complying Development - if your proposed development meets the standards for a Complying Development Certificate, it can be approved through this fast tracked process. This certificate can be obtained if your proposed development meets predetermined standards. For example, maximum building height, length and width.
- Development Consent - more complicated development proposals must pass through the development application process.
If the development is approved under a Complying Development Certificate then the proposed work can commence. Once the work is complete, the Council will inspect the development to ensure that it has met the agreed guidelines and grant you final approval with an Occupation Certificate. Please note that building inspections may take place throughout the development process.
If the proposal is approved under a Development Application then you will not be able to commence your development until you have been issued a Construction Certificate. If Development Consent is in relation to constructing a temporary entertainment structure, you will not require a Construction Certificate before commencing. Once the work is complete, the Council will inspect the development to ensure that it has met the agreed guidelines and grant you final approval with an Occupation Certificate.
Temporary entertainment structures include tents, booths, marquees, fencing, prefabricated buildings, seating stands and stages or platforms.
Please consult the Contact Officer for more information.
