Building and Development

For buildings that need approval, a development application (DA), which is a formal request for permission to carry out the work, is required. If the project involves building work, a Construction Certificate (CC) must be issued by Council or a private certifier before any work can commence. The following guidelines explain the major steps in the process.

Getting Started

Most building and development requires Council approval before work can begin. Please call Council's Call Centre on 9424 0888 to find out what approval you need. Some development does not require Council approval - such as minor changes like eg. building a BBQ or garden shed. It is important to check DCP 46 - Exempt and Complying Development or talk to an officer.

Development Application Fees

The fees for development applications are controlled by state legislation and are therefore the same in any Council area. The actual fees depend on the value of the work, so you will need to contact the Customer Service Centre for an estimate. At the time of lodgement, the value of the work will need to substantiated so the correct fee is charged. The estimate will be checked based on typical costs of building.

Refusals and appeals

If your application is not approved, or conditions of approval have been set which are not acceptable to you, you have a right of appeal to the NSW Land and Environment Court which will decide whether to grant your appeal or uphold Council's decision.

Swimming Pool Checklists

The swimming pool checklists, developed by the NSW Water Safety Taskforce in consultation with local councils, has been designed to assist pool owners determine whether their pool fence or other barrier complies with the legislation.  View the Home Pool Safety Checklists  -  http://www.safewaters.nsw.gov.au/poolchecklist.htm