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Development Applications (DA)
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What is a Development Application?
A Development Application (DA) is a formal request for permission to carry out a proposed development, such as building, renovating, subdividing land, or changing a property’s use.
It’s submitted to the local council and assessed against local planning controls, zoning laws, and state regulations. A well-prepared DA includes detailed plans, reports, and a clear justification for the proposal and getting it right is critical to avoid costly delays or refusals.
At Deep River, we specialise in preparing DAs that are strategic, compliant, and designed to get approved.
Stages
Stage 1: Pre-lodgement
Stage 2: Lodging your development application
Stage 3: Assessment
Stage 4: Determination
Stage 5: Construction Certificate
Stage 6: Occupation / Subdivision Certificate
How long does a Development Application take?
The time it takes for a Development Application (DA) to be approved can vary depending on the complexity of the project, the local council’s workload, and whether further information or public consultation is required. As a general guide:
- •Simple applications (e.g. small renovations or single dwellings) may take 6 to 8 weeks.
- •Moderate applications (e.g. multi-dwelling or mixed-use projects) can take 3 to 6 months.
- •Complex or contentious developments (e.g. rezonings or large-scale projects) may take 6+ months or longer.
At Deep River, we help streamline this process by identifying risks early, preparing a complete and compelling DA, and maintaining close communication with council to keep things moving.
We don’t just submit – we push for progress.
What can Deep River do for me?
Planning Reports (Statement of Environment Effects)
The planning report is the foundation of any development application. The purpose of this report is to explain the proposed development and its impacts, compile the findings of all specialist studies, and ensure legislative and DCP compliance. The planning report for a development application includes either:
- •the Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE or SoEE), or
- •the Environmental Impact Statement
If there is any potential impermissibility, we will identify and address these issues. Ensuring quality work in the initial stages of development helps minimise the likelihood of issues in the future.
Project Management / Specialist Studies
An essential part of the development application includes commissioning relevant experts to explain the social, economic, and ecological impacts of the proposed development. Deep River has long-standing relationships with some of the best specialist consultants allowing us a unique position to organise everything needed for your application.
Council / Government Liaison
As Town Planners, we deal with Local Councils, State Governments and other government agencies every single day. Deep River will ensure your application has the highest likelihood of approval by providing ongoing, effective communication with the relevant authorities.
What kind of Development Applications do you do?
We have experience in many different kinds of project, but have worked extensively on the following categories:
- •New Homes
- •Renovations
- •Subdivisions
- •Commercial
- •Industrial
- •Poultry Farms
- •Logistics Depots
- •Agricultural Developments
- •Tourist Facilities
How much does a Development Application cost?
The cost of a Development Application depends on the scale and complexity of the project, as well as the specific requirements of the local council.
What we can say is this, at Deep River, we offer tailored, cost-effective solutions for every client. Whether you're a first-time landowner or an experienced developer with a portfolio of sites, we’ll work with you to deliver exceptional value without cutting corners.
No project is too big or too small – just tell us what you’re planning, and we’ll help you make it happen.
Is there a difference between a Development Consent (Council approval) and a Development Application?
Yes, there's a clear difference between a Development Application (DA) and a Development Consent.
A Development Application is the formal request you submit to council seeking permission to carry out a proposed development. It includes your plans, reports, and justification for the project.
A Development Consent is the approval you receive from council if your DA is successful. It’s a legal document that sets out the conditions under which your development can proceed.
In short:
- •DA = your proposal
- •Consent = their approval
We manage the entire
development application process.
Whether you are a landowners, developer, or property investor looking to value-add to raw development sites, the Town Planners at Deep River will professionally manage your next development application (DA). With more than two decades of experience in town planning and hundreds of projects, Deep River has the expertise to manage your next DA successfully.
Deep River is excited to help you with your next development. With some of the most experienced town planners in Sydney, your development is in good hands.