Policies
For transparency, the department makes public the policy documents that guide our decisions, economy and environment. View those policy documents on this page.
Stage 4 – Determination
There are three possible outcomes for a DA: development consent, DA refusal and deferred commencement consent.
Purpose of this guide
This guide deals with DAs that require development consent from council. It does not deal with State significant development determined by or on behalf of the minister.
Information for landholders
Your land may be home to rare and important native trees and plants not found anywhere else in Australia or the world. We need your help to preserve it.
Social and affordable housing
Social and affordable housing is rental housing for members of the community who may not be able to afford to rent in the general market.
Getting started
Before your start a Development Application (DA), find out if you need consent from council, understand why a DA is needed and learn about the planning system.
2023 January formal enforcements
The department conducts inspection and enforcement activities for compliance. Read the details of the formal enforcements conducted in January 2023.
Historical documents – South West Growth Area
Historical documents of the South West Growth Area.
Somersby Planning Proposal
The Hunter and Central Coast Planning Panel received a planning proposal from the Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council for a site on Reeves Street, Somersby in July 2023.
2022 December formal enforcements
The department conducts inspection and enforcement activities for compliance. Read the details of the formal enforcements conducted in December 2022.