A development application (DA) is typically required for which of the following activities?

Q: What is the correct answer to: A development application (DA) is typically required for which of the following activities?

The correct answer is Building a new two-storey residential dwelling. Building a new two-storey residential dwelling constitutes significant development under all Australian state planning acts. This activity requires comprehensive assessment including compliance with zoning provisions, building height limits, setback requirements, environmental impact, and infrastructure capacity. New construction fundamentally changes land use and built form, triggering mandatory DA requirements. The development involves structural work, potential environmental impact, and must demonstrate compliance with local environmental plans (LEPs) and development control plans (DCPs). Unlike minor renovations or maintenance, new dwellings require detailed architectural plans, engineering assessments, and public notification processes mandated by planning legislation.

Q: What background knowledge is needed for this Planning Environment question?

Development applications are governed by state planning legislation including the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (NSW), Planning and Environment Act 1987 (VIC), and equivalent acts in other states. These laws define 'development' as construction, structural alterations, or changes of use requiring council assessment. Activities are categorized as exempt development (no approval needed), complying development (fast-track approval), or development requiring DA. Local Environmental Plans (LEPs) and Development Control Plans (DCPs) specify zoning requirements, building heights, setbacks, and design standards. The DA process involves public notification, assessment against planning controls, and consideration of environmental, traffic, and community impacts.

Q: What is a good way to remember the answer to this Planning Environment question?

Remember BUILD: Big changes need approval, Upgrades inside don't, Internal work is exempt, Little maintenance is fine, Development means new construction. If it's BIG and changes the outside or adds new structures, you need DA approval. If it's internal UPGRADES or LITTLE maintenance, it's typically exempt. When facing DA questions, apply BUILD: ask yourself if the activity is BIG (new construction, extensions, structural changes) or little (maintenance, internal work). Big external changes = DA required, little internal changes = usually exempt.

Q: What exam tip applies to this Planning Environment question?

Focus on whether the activity involves new construction or significant structural changes versus maintenance or internal modifications. New buildings, extensions, and external alterations typically require DAs, while painting, internal fitouts, and minor repairs are usually exempt development.

Q: How does this Planning Environment concept apply in Australian real estate practice?

A property investor purchases a vacant block and wants to build a new duplex. They must submit a DA including architectural plans, site analysis, and environmental assessments. The council assesses compliance with zoning (residential), building height limits, setback requirements, parking provisions, and potential impacts on neighbours. Meanwhile, the same investor painting rental properties or replacing kitchen cabinets in existing dwellings can proceed without DA approval, though building permits may be needed for electrical or plumbing work. Understanding these distinctions helps investors plan projects and budgets effectively.

Question

Planning EnvironmentDevelopment ApplicationsEASY

A development application (DA) is typically required for which of the following activities?

Answer Options

A

Painting the exterior of an existing house

B

Installing internal kitchen cabinets

C

Building a new two-storey residential dwelling

D

Replacing existing floor tiles