Overview
A development application is required whenever you want to build, subdivide or change the use of land anywhere in the Commonwealth's inhabited systems. This includes new dwellings, colony infrastructure, commercial premises and orbital facilities. The department assesses every application against the strategic planning scheme in force for the region, along with any applicable environmental, heritage and safety requirements.
Straightforward applications, such as a single dwelling on land already zoned for housing, are usually assessed under a fast-tracked pathway. Larger or more complex proposals, including anything within a designated frontier reserve, are assessed by a regional planning panel and may be referred for public comment.
Who needs to apply
You'll generally need a development application if you are:
- Building a new dwelling, outbuilding or colony structure
- Changing the use of an existing building or site
- Subdividing land into two or more lots
- Undertaking works within a conservation or frontier reserve zone
How to lodge an application
Confirm the zoning for your site and whether your proposal needs a permit.
Gather your plans, site details and any supporting reports.
Lodge through the planning portal with your application fee.
You'll be notified of the outcome once assessment is complete.
Assessment timeframes
Most applications are assessed within 8 weeks of lodgement. Applications that require public comment, or that are referred to a regional planning panel, may take longer. You can track the progress of your application at any time through the online portal, and the department will contact you if further information is needed.
Questions
Most applications are assessed within 8 weeks of lodgement. Applications referred for public comment may take longer.
Yes. Minor amendments can be lodged through the portal at any time before a decision is made.
You can request a review or lodge an appeal within 28 days of the decision. See the contact page for guidance.