Most DAs follow similar steps during processing, so this guide applies to the majority of applications. Please note that this is an indicative guide only, and that these steps do not necessarily occur one after the other.;
Pre-Assessment Team (Clearing House)
The application will be reviewed by the Pre-Assessment Team, generally comprised of Client Managers, Planners, Building Surveyors, Development Engineers and other senior staff. Prior to being accepted, a preliminary assessment of the application is done to ensure that the information provided complies with Council's requirements, and that the quality of the information is sufficient. If there are any noticeable problems with the application, the applicant will be notified via the NSW Planning Portal. The processing of the application may be delayed if there is not enough information to commence the assessment.
Notification and Submissions
An application is notified for a period of generally a minimum of 14 days, 21 days or 30 days depending on the type of application. During the notification period members of the community are entitled to make submissions about the proposed development. Some applications may not be notified depending on the nature of the proposal.
If an application is amended before a determination is made, the changes may require re-notification and be subject to a re-notification fee. Further information regarding notification requirements are contained within Part 2.1 Notification of Development Control Plan 2014(PDF, 660KB).
Referrals
Many applications will require input from specialists within Council. If this is the case the application will be referred to the relevant department e.g. Landscape Architect, Health Officer, Building Surveyor, Development Engineer or Drainage Engineer. Comments provided are included as part of the overall assessment of the application.
If the application is classified as integrated development under Clause 91 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, or if it involves land associated with a public authority it may also be forwarded at this time to the relevant additional public authority for their consent or agreement.
Assessment
When the notification period has finished the assessing officer will commence assessing the application. The officer will review all plans and supporting documentation, conduct a site inspection, review any submissions made, consider statutory requirements and compliance with relevant planning controls, and complete an assessment report. During this time the applicant will be advised of any issues and may be requested to consider making amendments to the DA.
Assessment officers can be contacted via phone through the Customer Service Centre between 3pm - 4.30pm Monday to Friday. Please note that the officer will be dealing with a number of applications at any one time.
Determination
The DA may be determined under delegated authority or dependant on the nature of the application, the submissions received and/or variations to Council’s codes, the application may be forwarded to the Local Planning Panel (LPP) for determination.
If the application is forwarded to LPP for determination, a report will be put forward for consideration by the LPP, and then a recommendation made to be considered at the meeting.
You will be advised in writing of the determination of your application. If your application is granted approval, you will be sent a copy of the development consent including conditions of consent and stamped approved plans. Should your application be refused, a refusal notice will be issued advising of the grounds for refusal.
All enquiries in relation to your application can be made by contacting the Ryde Planning and Business Centre on 9952 8222. You can also track the progress of your application online via the DA Tracking page.