Which of the following typically requires a Development Application (DA) to be submitted to the local council?
Correct Answer
B) Building a new two-storey residential dwelling
Building a new dwelling is considered development that requires council approval through a Development Application process. This ensures the proposal complies with zoning, building codes, and planning controls. Minor maintenance work like painting or replacing fixtures typically doesn't require DA approval.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Building a new two-storey residential dwelling constitutes 'development' under state planning legislation and requires a Development Application. This involves substantial construction that affects land use intensity, requires compliance with building codes, zoning controls, setback requirements, and height restrictions. New dwellings impact infrastructure capacity, neighbourhood character, and must demonstrate compliance with Local Environmental Plans (LEPs) and Development Control Plans (DCPs). Council assessment ensures the proposal meets all planning controls before construction approval.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Installing a new hot water system
Installing a new hot water system is typically classified as exempt development or minor building work that doesn't require a DA. It's considered maintenance/replacement of existing services that doesn't materially change the land use or building footprint. Such work usually only requires building approval if it involves structural changes.
Option C: Painting the exterior of an existing house
Painting the exterior of an existing house is routine maintenance that doesn't constitute development requiring council approval. It doesn't change the building's use, structure, or footprint. Painting is generally exempt development unless the property has heritage significance or specific council controls apply.
Option D: Replacing existing floor tiles
Replacing existing floor tiles is internal maintenance work that doesn't require a Development Application. It's considered like-for-like replacement that doesn't alter the building's structure, use, or external appearance. Such work falls under exempt development provisions in planning legislation.
Deep Analysis of This Planning Environment Question
Development Applications (DAs) are fundamental to Australian planning law, serving as the primary mechanism for local councils to control land use and development. Under state planning legislation, DAs are required for any development that materially changes the use or intensity of land use. The distinction between development requiring approval and exempt development is crucial for real estate professionals. New residential dwellings represent significant development that impacts infrastructure, neighbourhood character, and compliance with zoning controls. This question tests understanding of when council approval is mandatory versus when work falls under exempt or complying development categories. The principle ensures orderly development while protecting community interests and environmental standards.
Background Knowledge for Planning Environment
Development Applications are governed by state Environmental Planning and Assessment Acts, which define 'development' as the use of land, erection of buildings, or carrying out of works. Local councils assess DAs against Local Environmental Plans (LEPs), Development Control Plans (DCPs), and State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPPs). Exempt development includes minor works like maintenance, repairs, and small alterations that don't require approval. Complying development has streamlined approval processes for standard developments meeting pre-determined criteria.
Memory Technique
Remember BUILD: Big changes need approval, Upgrades/maintenance don't. If it's Building something new, Using land differently, Increasing intensity, Large-scale work, or Developing significantly - it needs a DA. Minor maintenance, painting, and replacements are typically exempt.
When you see DA questions, ask: 'Is this BUILD-level work?' New dwellings, extensions, change of use = YES (needs DA). Painting, minor repairs, like-for-like replacements = NO (exempt development).
Exam Tip for Planning Environment
Look for keywords: 'new', 'building', 'dwelling', 'extension' usually need DAs. 'Replacing', 'painting', 'maintaining', 'installing' (same function) typically don't. Focus on whether the work materially changes land use or building footprint.
Real World Application in Planning Environment
A client wants to build a granny flat in their backyard. As their agent, you must advise that this requires a Development Application as it's new residential accommodation. However, when they later want to repaint their house or replace the kitchen tiles, you can reassure them these are exempt development activities requiring no council approval, saving them time and money in the approval process.
Common Mistakes to Avoid on Planning Environment Questions
- •Assuming all building work requires a DA
- •Confusing Development Applications with Building Approvals
- •Not distinguishing between new construction and maintenance work
Related Topics & Key Terms
Key Terms:
More Planning Environment Questions
What is the primary purpose of local council zoning controls?
Which zone typically allows for both residential and commercial uses in Australian planning schemes?
A development application (DA) is typically required for which of the following?
What is the typical timeframe for a local council to determine a standard development application in NSW?
Which building classification under the National Construction Code applies to a detached house?
- → A property owner wants to demolish a building constructed in 1920 in an established suburb. What should they check before proceeding?
- → Under SEPP (State Environmental Planning Policy) provisions, what is complying development?
- → What is the primary purpose of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)?
- → A developer proposes a 15-storey mixed-use building in an area zoned for maximum 8 storeys. Which planning mechanism could potentially allow this development to proceed?
- → Under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), when is Commonwealth approval required for a development?
- → What is the primary purpose of local council zoning in Australian planning systems?
- → What does 'R1 General Residential' zoning typically permit in most Australian planning schemes?
- → Under the National Construction Code (NCC), what is the primary purpose of the Building Code of Australia (BCA)?
- → A property developer wants to build a 15-storey apartment complex in an area zoned R2 Low Density Residential with a maximum height limit of 8.5 metres. What is the most likely outcome?
- → What is typically required when a development proposal may significantly impact the environment in Australia?
People Also Study
Property Law & Legislation
60 questions
Agency Practice & Law
60 questions
Contracts & Conveyancing
60 questions
Property Marketing & Sales
50 questions