How to Lodge a Development Application, Modifications & Reviews

How to lodge a Development Application (DA) using the NSW Planning Portal.

This includes:

  • New development applications.
  • Modifications to previous approvals.
  • Review a determination.

Visit the Development Application Process for the steps involved in applying for a DA.

To avoid delay or return of a DA, please upload the correct information with your application. 

How to apply?

Step 1.Research and prepare your application

Development Application Lodgement Matrix and Checklist tells you what must be submitted with your application.

Complete an Estimated Cost of the Works report - Use the 'Estimating the genuine cost of development' as a guide.

  • For works less than $3,000,000 - the templates can be uploaded with your application. 
  • For works greater than $3M - a Registered Quantity Surveyor's report is required.

Contact our Development Support Officers if you have any questions. 

Step 2.Submit your application on the NSW Planning Portal

  1. Create an account on the NSW Planning Portal
  2. Complete the online application for a Development Application on the NSW Planning Portal. This includes new applications, modifications to previous approvals or to review a determination.
  3. Download the Quick Reference Guide for Submitting a Development Application online to help step through the application form.
  4. Upload all of the documents in the matrix and checklist. Documents and plans must be in the correct formats outlined in the Digital application requirements fact sheet

Step 3.Council Review

We check the correct information and documents have been provided so it can be assessed.

We'll contact you if more information is required. If the information is late or missing, the application may be returned. It can then be resubmitted when you have all of the required information.

Step 4.DA acceptance and assessment

Once your application is accepted, an invoice will be forwarded to the nominated payee for payment. 

When payment is made, assessment of your application will start. 

Application requirements

The Development Application Matrix and Checklist identifies what documents and plans are needed to be submitted with your development application. It is broken up into three sections:

  1. Simple residential development types such as dwellings, secondary dwellings, additions, swimming pools and garages.
  2. More complex development types such as commercial, industrial or multi-residential works.
  3. An explanation of the documents, plans and reports you may need as outlined in Sections 1 and 2 above.

Development Application Lodgement Matrix and Checklist

Documents must comply with the format, file size and documentation naming conventions outlined in our Digital Format Application Requirements Fact Sheet.

Planning Portal Guides

For help using the online service, view the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment’s How To Guide or contact Service NSW on 1300 305 695 for support.