FAQs

The purpose of the policy is to remove the need for Development Approval where it doesn’t add value.

If a proposal is low risk, meets clear and established standards, and has minimal planning impact, a full planning application can add unnecessary time, cost and paperwork for applicants — without improving the outcome.

The exemptions allow planning resources to focus on more complex or higher-impact proposals, while making the system simpler and more efficient for straightforward projects.

The State Government already exempt certain categories of develoment through the Planning and Development (Local Planning Schemes) Regulations 2015 (Regulations). This Policy applies in addition to these exemptions.

To qualify for an exemption, a proposal must meet all listed criteria.

If it only meets some of the requirements, a development application will still be required. This ensures that potential impacts of variations to established planning rules are properly assessed through the normal planning assessment process.

If you're unsure, City staff can provide guidance on whether your proposal qualifies.

No. The policy relates to planning (development) approval only. 

Building permit requirements under the Building Act still apply where relevant. Even if development approval is not required, a building permit (or other regulatory approvals) may still be necessary.

Applicants should confirm all relevant approvals before commencing works.

Three grouped dwellings have been included where they meet strict criteria because, in many cases, they are low-impact forms of housing that comply fully with the R-Codes and local planning requirements.

Where proposals meet all standards and do not require discretion, the planning assessment process adds limited value. Including compliant grouped dwellings supports housing supply while maintaining clear safeguards through the exemption criteria.

If a proposal seeks variations or does not meet all requirements, it will still require development approval.