As our community grows, staying informed about development applications (DAs) in your neighbourhood is essential. It gives you a chance to comment and influence local projects.

Council provides tools and resources to keep you informed and involved in nearby building projects or future major developments in the community. 

Here’s how you can stay in the loop:

1. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter
Our weekly e-newsletter and the Northern Beaches News, provides a direct link to the latest DA submissions. It’s an easy way to stay informed about nearby building projects and major developments on a weekly basis. You can subscribe here. 

2. Explore the application search on our website 
We encourage you to frequently visit our Council’s Application Search tool. You can search for applications on a map, by date and more. The page includes detailed information on each DA, complete with location maps and specifics about the proposed development.

3. Understand the notification process
Applicants are required to place a yellow sign at the front of the property during the notification period. Additionally, immediate neighbours receive direct notifications about the DA.

4. Know the difference between a development application and a planning proposal

• Development application (DA): This is a formal request for permission to carry out specific types of development, such as building a new structure or making major alterations. Once a DA is submitted, it undergoes a standard notification process where the community can provide feedback.
• Planning proposal: This involves changes to the Local Environment Plan (LEP), such as altering zoning requirements. While not legally required to be exhibited before Council review, we offer a chance for community input during this phase. If the proposal is endorsed by Council and receives a Gateway Determination from the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, the next step involves formal public exhibition and then Council review before it can be rezoned. Only then can a DA be submitted for formal consideration.

5. Share your thoughts
For Planning Proposals, you can express your opinions and suggestions through Council’s Have Your Say website. For DAs, the Application Search tool is the place to go.

By staying informed and involved, you help shape the future of our community. Subscribe to our newsletter, check the Application Search web page regularly, and let your voice be heard.

For more information head to our website