Application process
How to prepare your DA
The following items need to be prepared and submitted for all development applications (DAs):
- completed DA form
- electronic copies
- statement of environmental effects
- required fees
- drawings.
DA forms
Depending on the scope of your proposed development there are different forms for different categories:
- small scale residential
- small scale commercial
- food and drink premises
- all others (any development that does not fit the above 3 categories).
Owners' consent
When lodging your DA you must submit a completed application form along with verified consent from all of the registered owners including details of the proposed development.
If a company owns the property, the company stamp or seal is required. If the building is subject to a strata scheme, the owners' corporation seal and authorised signatures are required. Proposed development details include:
- the existing use
- operating hours
- staff numbers
- goods to be produced or stored
- existing and proposed car spaces
- loading facilities.
Digital copies
We require digital copies of applications, including plans and documentation.
Statement of Environmental Effects
Any expected impact of the development on the environment, adjoining premises or the public, needs to be detailed in a Statement of Environmental Effects. It should also include a description of the current situation and the proposed development.
If the development has minor or no environmental impact, the statement may be included on the DA form.
Required fees
The City of Sydney's schedule of fees and charges is available online or a copy can be collected from a Neighbourhood Service Centre.
In addition to the application fee, many applications also require payment of an advertising notification fee. Integrated developments attract additional fees as most need to be advertised and notified. Neighbourhood Service Centre staff can provide advice on which fees apply to your DA.
Scaled drawings
A minimum of 6 sets of scaled drawings must be prepared for the proposed development, which must include the following points.
- A site plan showing the location of the proposed development within a building or within the locality, which should also identify the actual site, streets, adjoining properties and a north point.
- Plans showing details of the proposed development in relation to adjoining premises and streets if applicable.
- The floor plan of the whole floor if the proposed development is only for part of a floor of a building.
- Elevations showing the view of the development from all visible sides in relation to adjoining premises*.
- Sections through appropriate areas of the site*.
- A clear distinction between alterations and additions – new work must be coloured.
- Drawings that are to scale, normally at 1:100, and suitably numbered and dated.
- Drawings folded to A4 size with the title block to the front.
- Signage application information, which under the City's Advertising Sign Code requires plan and elevation details of the location, size and width of the sign, its height above ground, materials, colouring, text to be displayed including size of lettering, graphics, logo and illumination.
* Not required if no new work is proposed.
Last updated: Wednesday, 2 January 2013