Development Application

It really pays off to be well informed from the very beginning of your build. And do you know what the very first step is to commence your build? Yep, you guessed it, the Development Application. So we thought we would help you out with Development Application 101. Get your DA right, and you’ll not only get your build started off right, you’ll no doubt save time and delays (and money!).

A Development Application, Planning Application or DA (as it’s know in the Industry) is a formal request for approval to commence a proposed development, change use of land, and other work. Development Applications are sent to local council for the town planner to assess. It is the responsibility of the town planner to ensure that your development complies with the Town’s Planning Scheme, Residential Design Codes (R-codes) and other relevant legislation and policies.

In order to get Council approval for you Development Application, you need someone to guide you through the process of what is required, allowed and/or considered, and put all those great ideas into paper in the form of architectural plans. This is where we come in! We can help you get your home designed and drafted so that you can start the process of getting these ideas approved and built. With these plans, Council will assess things like cone of visions for privacy and overlooking issues; overshadowing to ensure there is appropriate solar access to your neighbour’s properties; and building heights to ensure your house is not out of proportion with the streetscape.

It is fairly safe to say that most building works and/or changing of use of a site, require lodgement of a Development Application. While it is essential to ensure your new home design or renovation meets the requirements set out in the Building Code of Australia and R-codes, it is important to mention that there are other regulations (based on environmental, heritage, local development considerations and others) you must comply with before construction can go ahead. These regulations will vary according to the council of your project location.

Once your plans have been given the big tick of approval, you’re ready to start preparing for obtaining a Building Permit. Stay tuned for more on Building Permits and other articles that will help you on the daunting process of getting your house approved and built.

Contact us for more information on how we can help you draft your plans for council approval, as well as successfully obtain your Building Permit, hassle free without delay. Contact us today.