On this page you will find information about:
Making an application Preparing an application Fees
The role of the local council
Making an application
An application must be lodged every time you wish to undertake development.
Development refers to a wide range of activities associated with:
- building work
- changes in land use
- advertising displays
- land division and community title division.
The standard requirements for any development application include:
For an alternative version of these documents see planning contacts.
Plans must be prepared and submitted in accordance with Schedule 5 of the Development Regulations 2008.
Some councils have their own development application forms. You can find the local council where the proposed development is located. To get information about their application process - see The role of the local council.
Supporting documents
There will be specific documents required to support the assessment of applications depending on the nature of the development. The assessment can occur in a number of stages prior to a full development approval being issued. Information describing the project and its design must be provided before consents can be granted.
For development plan consent
At least three copies of the following should be provided:
- site plan
- additional plans
- description of the surrounding area
- description of the proposed development.
For building rules consent
- roof, wall and floor layouts of any buildings, including dimensions and calculations
- details of construction materials and design
- engineering details - eg significant excavations, service or infrastructure lines
Some development applications are relatively simple for example, a minor addition to an existing development, such as a carport or pergola. In such cases the description of the proposed development may be evident in the site plan, or the main issues could be covered in a simple letter. The description of the surrounding area will only need to address the immediate environment.
More complex proposals, such as those that may have impacts more widely than the development site, for example noise, visual or traffic impacts may require a more detailed report to fully describe the proposed development and should include a description of the surrounding area such as adjoining and nearby development and landforms.
Most development applications must be lodged with the council for the area in which the proposed development is located. If there is no council for that area, they must be lodged with the Development Assessment Commission.
Land division applications must be lodged with the Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure on behalf of the Development Assessment Commission.
For more information on the requirements of each consent see development applications guide to applicants (PDF 68KB).
For an alternative version of this document see planning contacts.
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Preparing an application
Preparing a good quality application will result in a better outcome. Preparing all of the information at the start of the process can help you to resolve any possible problems with the proposal before you lodge your application. This will save you time and possibly money, as it may stop you having to amend your plans later on.
It is a good idea to speak to planning staff at your local council when you are preparing your application.
If your proposal is complicated, or you are not confident about preparing an application yourself, you could employ a planning consultant. Planning consultants are qualified professionals who understand council development plans and processes. They will be able to advise and assist you throughout the process of your application, from helping you to design your proposal and putting your application together, to liaising with council and responding to any issues raised during public notification.
You can find planning consultants under Town Planning in the Yellow Pages or via the Planning Institute of Australia.
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Fees
The cost of a development application varies greatly as it depends on the type of development and the use of professional advice. In addition to the relevant authority’s development assessment fees, costs may include:
- planning consultant fees
- building consultant fees
- surveyor
- draftsperson.
While using professional advice is an additional cost, the resulting application is typically of a higher standard and generally assists with the assessment process. Professional advice can also help to shorten decision timeframes.
The following links provide information on the fee charges as at 1 July 2011:
For an alternative version of these documents see planning contacts.
Fees are reviewed annually. They may also vary from time to time. If you want to be absolutely certain of the cost - check with your local council prior to lodgement of your application.
How fees can be paid:
Internet
The secure
Bizgate payment site that allows you to pay Land division application fee via credit card 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Mail
Cheques or money orders can be sent to:
Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure
GPO Box 1815
Adelaide SA 5001
Phone: 8303 0724
In person
Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure
Customer Service Counter
Level 5
Roma Mitchell House
136 North Terrace
Adelaide SA 5000
If the Development Assessment Commission is the authority, fees are to be paid to them and likewise for the relevant council.
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The role of the local council
The majority of development application decisions are made by local councils in their role as assessment authorities.
Principle functions include:
- planning at the local and regional level for the development and future requirements of their area
- providing for the welfare, well-being and interests of individuals and groups within their communities
- managing, developing, protecting, restoring, enhancing and conserving the environment in an ecologically sustainable manner, and to improve amenity
- providing infrastructure for their communities and for development within their area
- managing, and if appropriate developing, public areas vested in or occupied by a council
- managing, improving and developing resources available to a council.
The Local Government Association of South Australia website has a complete list of councils and relevant contact details.
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More information
On this site
Building safely near powerlines
Other websites
Local Government Association of South Australia
Development Assessment Commission
Downloads
Development application form (PDF 16KB)
Development application fees 2010 (PDF 129KB)
Land division guide for applicants (PDF 1MB)
Submitting an application for approval of development outside council areas guide for applicants (PDF 2.55MB)
Guide to development assessment (PDF 324KB)
For an alternative version of these documents see planning contacts.
Legislation
Development Act 1993
Development Regulations 2008
Contacts
Planning contacts