Development Application

A Development Application, commonly referred to as a 'DA' is required for most developments in the local area.

A Development Application is not always necessary. If you haven't already, check if you are eligible to undertake the development as:

Visit the NSW Planning Portal for more information on exempt and complying development.

A Development Application is assessed based on its merits and should align to the development standards, controls and provisions as set out in the State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008 (referred to as the 'Codes SEPP'), Shoalhaven Development Control Plan 2014 and Shoalhaven Local Environmental Plan 2014.

Upon an acceptable assessment outcome of your proposed development, Council will issue a 'development consent' under Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 pt 4 div 4.3 s 4.18 - Post-determination notification, which will outline the 'conditions of consent' that you will need to meet.

Upon receiving your DA approval and prior to commencing works, you will need to obtain a 'construction certificate' for any building works and/or a 'subdivision works certificate' for any subdivision works, and appoint a 'principle certifier'.  

How do I know what zone I am in?

Across our local government area (LGA) there are different land use zones, including:

  • Residential
  • Commercial
  • Industrial

These zones reflect the type of development that is expected to occur in the area.

To identify your zoning, you can view Council's Maps Online or refer to your Section 10.7 Certificate.

The Shoalhaven Local Environmental Plan (LEP) sets out what types of development can be undertaken in each zone. The Jerberra Estate has its own LEP.

Lodging a Development Application

Lodgement of a Development Application must be made online via the NSW Planning Portal

Getting set-up for online lodgement is simple and you can start using it straight away:

  1. Go to the NSW Planning Portal
  2. Click on ‘My Account’
  3. Select ‘Create Account’ and follow the prompts

Once created, you can apply for Development Applications with us online via your account.

For an overview on the NSW Planning Portal, watch this video.

Once your application has been submitted we will review your submission to make sure it has all of the necessary documentation. If we require any additional information or documentation we will let you know via your Planning Portal account. If so, you will need to submit this information to us via the NSW Planning Portal.

Development Applications will only be formally accepted and progressed to the next phase once the fees relating to your application have been paid to Council. An invoice for the fees will be sent via the NSW Planning Portal.

You will be automatically notified when we've lodged your application into our system and when your application has been determined (a decision has been made). Approved plans and documentation will be delivered to you via the NSW Planning Portal.

Your guide to the DA process

The NSW Government has developed a step by step breakdown of the DA process, from pre-lodgement (preparing your documents) to organising construction, to obtaining the final occupation certificate (the last step in the formal DA and construction process).

Your guide to the DA process - NSW Planning Portal