Exempt Development

Some minor building renovations or works don’t need any planning or building approval. This is called exempt development. Exempt development is very low impact development that can be done for certain residential, commercial and industrial properties.

A few examples of development that can be exempt developments are: decks, garden sheds, carports, fences, repairing a window or painting a house.

As long as the proposed works meet all of the development standards, approval may not be needed.

How do I tell if my development is exempt?

In order to find out if your development is exempt, you should read through the general requirements listed under Part 1 of the NSW State Environmental Planning Policy for exempt and complying development, as these requirements apply to all exempt developments.

All exempt developments must still meet the National Construction Code (NCC) as well as the requirements for adjoining owners’ property rights, applicable common law, and other legislative requirements for approvals, licenses, permits and authorities.

Additional exempt development criteria in council's Local Environment Plan (LEP)

Schedule 2 of the Shoalhaven Local Environment Plan contains additional exempt development criteria that are not specified in the NSW State Environment Planning Policy.

What if my development is not exempt?

If your development does not satisfy all the exempt development criteria, you will need to:

OR