A development application is a formal submission to a local council or planning authority requesting permission to carry out building work, subdivide land, or change the use of a property.
What Is a Development Application?
A development application is part of the planning approval process for proposed development.
In Western Australia, planning laws regulate the use and development of land through planning schemes and other planning instruments. Depending on the proposal and the applicable planning scheme, development approval may be required before development can proceed.
The application provides information about the proposed development so that the relevant planning authority can assess it against the applicable planning requirements.
What Can a Development Application Cover?
Development applications can relate to different types of development and planning matters.
Depending on the proposal, an application may relate to building work, changes to the use of land or buildings, or other forms of development regulated by the applicable planning scheme.
The information required depends on the type of proposal, the planning scheme that applies to the site and the authority responsible for determining the application.
Development Applications in Western Australia
In Western Australia, development applications are assessed under the applicable planning framework.
Local planning schemes are administered by local governments and regulate development within their areas. Other planning schemes and pathways can involve the Western Australian Planning Commission or other decision-making bodies.
Development applications are commonly dealt with by the relevant local government, although the applicable planning framework and type of development can determine the authority responsible for assessing or determining an application.
For more information, see the WA Planning Department’s overview of development and planning pathways.
What Information Is Included in a Development Application?
The documentation required for a development application depends on the proposal and the requirements of the relevant planning authority.
An application may require information such as plans, supporting reports, photographs, site information and other documentation needed to assess the proposal.
For example, local government application requirements can include development plans and supporting information describing the proposed development. The exact requirements should be checked against the applicable planning scheme and the relevant authority’s current application requirements.
Development Applications and Planning Assessment
Once a development application has been accepted for assessment, the relevant authority assesses the proposal against the applicable planning requirements.
Depending on the application, this can involve consideration of planning controls, development standards, consultation or advertising, and information provided by the applicant.
The assessment process varies according to the planning framework and type of development.
Kyle Standing’s Perspective on Development Applications
Kyle Standing’s background in engineering and local government experience provides context for the role of building documentation within the planning and approval process.
For projects that require development approval, clear drawings and supporting documentation help communicate the proposed development to the relevant authority.
Understanding the planning requirements before preparing documentation helps ensure that the drawings address the information needed for assessment.
Related Terms
Development applications are closely connected with several terms used throughout the building and approval process: