Development consent and construction approval processes -

Find out more about each stage of the development consent and construction approval processes. This section will take you through each stage, people’s roles and what’s involved to get your Occupation Certificate then celebrate and move in.

Stage 1 – Pre-lodgement (Getting it right at the start)

If you get the front end right you are likely to have a simple DA process.

Stage 2 – Lodgement and initial administration by council of your application

When you have filled out all the required forms you can lodge your application with council.

Stage 3 – Assessment (What happens to my DA now?)

The site must be inspected, applicants and neighbours engaged, reports drafted and recommendations made.

Stage 4 – Determination (The Decision)

There are three possible outcomes for a DA: Development consent, DA refusal, deferred commencement consent.

Stage 5 – Get your Construction Certificate and organise construction

Before you can start building you must do four things: Get a Construction Certificate, appoint a Principal Certifying Authority (PCA), give the council and the PCA two days’ notice before you start work, and complete any works.

Stage 6 – Get your Occupation Certificate and celebrate

The OC authorises the occupation and use of a new building or building section. For staged works, an Interim OC may be issued which allows you to occupy the completed part of the building.

Glossary

Find the glossary of terms and abbreviations used in the DA process guide