A development approval, or DA, is council's formal permission to do something the planning scheme does not already allow as of right. On Brisbane's south side that covers most subdivisions, multi-unit projects, and change of use.
What is a DA in Queensland?
Under the Planning Act 2016, development is classed as accepted (no approval needed), assessable (approval required), or prohibited. A DA is the formal application you lodge to obtain approval for assessable development. It is lodged with the local council or, in some cases, the State Assessment and Referral Agency.
When do you need a DA?
Common triggers on our patch: subdividing land, building multi-unit residential, dual occupancy on lots that do not meet accepted conditions, a home business or short term letting in some zones, secondary dwellings above certain sizes, and any work in overlays such as flood, koala habitat, or character.
What does the DA process look like?
1. Pre-lodgement. Optional but recommended meeting with council to identify issues early. 2. Lodgement. Town planner prepares the application with plans, reports (traffic, stormwater, engineering, ecology as needed), and a planning report. 3. Information request. Council may ask for more information within a set period. 4. Public notification. If your application is impact-assessable, it is publicly notified and can be submitted against. 5. Decision. Council issues a decision notice, either approved with conditions, or refused. 6. Appeal period. Applicants and submitters can appeal to the Planning and Environment Court within a set window.
How long does a DA take?
For a small residential DA under code assessment, typically three to five months. For impact-assessable DAs with public notification, six to nine months. Contested or appealed DAs can run 12 months or more.
What does a DA cost?
Council application fees vary by scale and type, from a few thousand dollars for a small DA to tens of thousands for larger projects. Add town planner, engineer, and other consultant fees. Budget $8,000 to $25,000 for a small residential DA all in.
How do you give yours the best chance?
Do the pre-lodgement meeting. Design to the scheme, not against it. Address the assessment benchmarks directly in your planning report. Deal with overlays honestly. Respond quickly and comprehensively to information requests. Engage a town planner who knows your council.
Important note
This article is general information only, not legal advice. Queensland property law changes and every situation is different. Before you act, speak with a qualified solicitor or licensed conveyancer, and verify current requirements with the relevant Queensland Government source (Queensland Government, Queensland Law Society, Office of Fair Trading, or the QBCC where applicable).
Where to from here
Thinking of developing or selling a completed project? Let's talk strategy and end value, or book a proper appraisal so we can map the numbers together. Curious what a finished product might be worth today? Jai will give you an instant estimate.
Frequently asked questions
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