Apply for a development permit

You may need to apply for a development permit if you want to:

• build something new
• extend your home
• change a use
• subdivide your land.

The table below provides a summary of the application process.

For pastoral landholders, read about the different process for subdividing your pastoral lease.

Summary

If public exhibition is required, 14 to 28 days. This may include notices through:

Development Consent Authority (within DCA division areas)

Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics (outside of DCA division areas)

Before you apply

Before you apply for a development permit, you need to know your assessment category.

You can also speak to a planner from DAS for advice on:

• whether you need a permit
• your assessment category
• what to include in your application
• what to expect during the assessment process
• applicable fees and advertising requirements
• other supporting information you may need.

Supporting information

You must provide the following when you apply for a development permit:

• your contact details and other beneficiary details
• owner’s authorisation - if you are not the sole property owner
  • land owner/s authorisation form PDF (676.5 KB)
  • land owner/s authorisation form DOCX (54.6 KB)
  • site plan
  • subdivision plan
  • floor layout plans
  • elevations and sections
  • it must be in landscape orientation
  • it should reflect the proposed development and can include a perspective, an elevation or site plan
  • it must be a JPG or PNG file and be clear when printed in A4 size
  • for subdivisions, changes to use or minor developments, a clear dimensioned plan may be enough
  • its merits
  • how it will comply with the planning scheme
  • how it will influence the amenity of the area
  • other matters that may be relevant under section 46 of the Planning Act 1999.

  If you are seeking a variation to a permitted use which has become merit assessable, you can use a simplified statement of effect template DOCX (39.8 KB) .

  For more information about your application requirements, read the guide - submitting a development application PDF (221.5 KB) .

  If you don't understand the requirements, you can contact a planner. You may also consider getting a private planning consultant to apply on your behalf.

  How to apply

  To apply, follow the steps below:

  Step 1. Submit your application

  Submit a development permit application through the DAO website. If there is a particular advertising date that you are working towards, you will need to submit by close of business on the Tuesday week before that date (i.e 10 days).

  Attach your image

  • alongside the application details on the DAO website and
  • on your custom sign (if applicable)

  If you submit without an image, your application will be returned.

  Step 2. Pay the fee

  After your application is accepted, you must pay an application fee.

  If a public exhibition period is required, you must also pay the advertising fee before advertising can start.

  You can either pay:

  • online through the DAO website - preferred payment method
  • in person by cash or card at your nearest planning office.

  If you have submitted an application on behalf of someone else, you can send them a link to pay the fee.

  All fees are non-refundable, even if your application is unsuccessful.

  After you apply

  Read below to find out what happens after you submit your application.