South Australia’s new planning system launches 19 March

Published on 25 February 2021

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The ePlanning platform at PlanSA will become your one-stop online service for submitting and tracking development applications.

Replacing the application process run through individual councils, the ePlanning platform will be Australia’s first statewide system. Implemented by the South Australian State Government the platform will be accessible online anywhere, anytime.

The ePlanning platform will bring together the PlanSA Portal, the online Planning and Design Code, the South Australian Property and Planning Atlas and the electronic Development Application Processing system.

From 19 March, everyone living and working in South Australia will have access to clear and consistent planning policies. Australia’s first ePlanning platform will help you to:

  • submit and track development applications online,
  • search property zoning,
  • find an accredited professional,
  • review development rules, and
  • track major projects and development activity across the state.

 

What happens to applications that are submitted before the ePlanning Platform launch?

Any development applications submitted prior to 19 March 2021 for metropolitan areas will continue to be assessed and determined under the current planning system. Council staff will continue to manage applications already in progress and they will not be affected by the launch of the new planning system.

Can Council continue to help me?

Applications will no longer be lodged through Council from 19 March; applications will require lodgement directly into the ePlanning portal. If assistance is needed, PlanSA has a helpline to assist, phone 1800 752 664. Our staff continue to be here to support you and assist you in navigating the new system.

Council staff can also lodge your application on your behalf, subject to an additional administration fee of $80 set by the state government.  Please contact our planning staff for more details.

To learn more about the new ePlanning Platform and to view the online Planning and Design Code for metro areas visit the PlanSA website

Please read more FAQs below.

Why the change?

The ePlanning platform replaces the application process run through individual councils and will be Australia’s first statewide system. Implemented by the South Australian State Government the platform will deliver clear and consistent planning policies and will be accessible online anywhere, anytime. 

How can I access information about South Australia’s new planning system?

South Australia’s new planning system for metro areas will launch on 19 March 2021.

For information or to access the new planning system:

Where can I get help online?

The ePlanning platform is designed for ease-of-use and provides many self-help resources.

To find out if approval is needed for your project, you can access the Approval Wizard to confirm the next steps.

A range of other training materials will also be available on the PlanSA website.

If you would like further help, email PlanSA@sa.gov.au or call the PlanSA Service Desk on 1800 752 664

How do I lodge an application in the new system?

To find out the information you’ll need to provide, what fees apply and how to lodge your application visit PlanSA and click on ‘Lodge An Application’ within the Development Applications menu.

From here you will be able to create an online account to lodge your development application online. 

What does the ePlanning platform contain?

The ePlanning platform brings together:

  • the PlanSA Portal
  • the online Planning and Design Code
  • the South Australian Property and Planning Atlas, and
  • the electronic Development Application Processing system.

How will the new planning system help me?

From 19 March 2021, everyone living and working in South Australia will have access to clear and consistent planning policies. Australia’s first ePlanning platform will help you to submit and track development applications online, search property zoning, find an accredited professional, review development rules, and track major projects and development activity across the state.

Can Council continue to help me?

Applications will no longer be lodged through Council from 19 March 2021; applications will require lodgement directly into the ePlanning portal. If assistance is needed, PlanSA has a helpline to assist, phone 1800 752 664. Our staff continue to be here to support you and assist you in navigating the new system.

Council staff can also lodge your application on your behalf, subject to an additional administration fee of $80 set by the state government.  Please contact our planning staff for more details.

How do I check if development approval is needed?

If you’re planning on undertaking development, you may need approval before you get started. To find out if approval is needed for your project, you can access the Approval Wizard at the PlanSA website to confirm the next steps.

By answering a few questions about your plans, the wizard can determine:

  • If you need approval
  • How to apply for approval
  • Who to contact for more information.