We assess and regulate projects – including those for the state’s most significant infrastructure – to balance the needs of the NSW community, environment and economy. Learn more about the development assessment process and planning policy.
![New apartment building. Canterbury, Sydney, NSW. Credit: NSW Department of Planning and Environment / Salty Dingo](/sites/default/files/2023-06/development-assessment-1200x800.jpg)
Development assessment
The process for assessing and deciding developments and how they relate to your proposal.
![Small shed in a residential backyard.](/sites/default/files/2023-03/exempt-development-1500x500.jpg)
Planning approval pathways
There are 9 different planning approval pathways in NSW. The size and scale of the development will determine which of the assessment pathways is appropriate.
![Panoramic view of Western Sydney Parklands - M7 M4 Motorway Intersection, Sydney. Credit: NSW Department of Planning and Environment / Salty Dingo](/sites/default/files/2023-06/state-significant-projects-1200x800.jpg)
State significant projects
The department has an important role in assessing and determining proposals for major development in NSW.