Development applications & process

Looking for a Development Application?

Overview

A building development or renovation project can be an exciting but stressful time. If you are considering doing any building works, want to change the way your property is used, or erect an advertising sign it is likely you will require Council approval.

You obtain approval by completing the Development Application (DA) process. 

We have made a simple guide to help step you through the process to successfully submit your project to Council for assessment.

What is a Development Application?

The Development Application (DA) allows the council to determine whether your project will adhere to local and state building requirements, consider its environmental impact and ensure that it won’t be a nuisance to immediate neighbours or other nearby properties. It is a formal request to undertake any kind of development.

The DA process is made up of two types of consent;

Planning Consent

This is the concept. What is it that you want to do? Where will any buildings or additions be located? What will it look like? Will your project/development create any impacts or issues?

Building Rules Consent

This is where we consider the physical construction details. The specifications (what materials you're using), the footing details and/or engineer's report (how you'll make your building stand up), working drawings (how your building will be constructed) etc.

You can apply for Planning Consent and Building Rules Consent at the same time if you wish. However you will need BOTH Planning Consent AND Building Rules Consent to get Development Approval.

The Development Application Process

Here is an overview of the steps within the Development Application process.

Process overview

Step 1.Check if Council approval is required

•Find out when you need to obtain approval
•Check your zoning
•Approval exemptions
•Pre-application discussion

 

Read more about approval and requirements >

Step 2.Prepare and complete the Application

•Application information
•Application fees
•Submitting your application
 

Read more about preparing and submitting your DA >

Step 3.Council checks & assesses the Application

•Information about your application is assessed
•Site visits and Referrals
•Public notification

 

Read more about Council assessment >

Step 4.Council Decision

•Notification of decision
•Checking your Application status

 

Read more about Council decision >

Step 5.Mandatory notifications

  • notifications required during building work
  • online notifications

Development Application process >

Timeframes

The approval time for applications differs depending on the complexity of your application. If we need to notify your application, it may take up to two months for approval. This time frame may increase if we need to;

  • ask for more information,
  • if we receive representations from notified parties,
  • or if the application needs to be assessed by the Council Assessment Panel.

 

Contact Us

Phone

08 8372 5111

Email

pobox1@unley.sa.gov.au

Location

Civic Centre
181 Unley Rd
Unley
View Map

I want to

Submit an application

Make a payment

Back to top