Some minor building renovations or works don’t need any planning or building approval. This is called exempt development. Exempt development is very low impact development that can be done for certain residential, commercial and industrial properties.

Examples of exempt development include decks, garden sheds, carports, fences, repairing a window or painting a house. More information is available in the Understanding exempt development fact sheet (PDF, 266 KB).

Read the fact sheet

As long as the proposed works meet all of the development standards identified in the State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008, approval may not be needed.

Awning, blinds and canopies

Find out if your awning, blind or canopy can be installed without planning approval.

Balconies, decks and patios

Check the key size, height and location rules for outdoor structures.

Carports

Review the requirements for building a carport.

Fences

Understand the rules and responsibilities before building a fence.

Pathways and paving

Learn when paving or paths can be installed without planning approval.

Resources

Exempt development
Rules for exempt development
Rules for exempt and complying development

More information

For more information about exempt development, go to the NSW Planning Portal or email [email protected]

On the NSW Planning Portal, you'll find help and training guides, be able to submit a development application and track development applications.