A Development Application (DA) is a formal request you make to your local council asking for permission to develop your property. It could be anything from:

• Building a duplex on a suburban block
• Subdividing your land into two or more lots
• Adding a granny flat, shed, or second dwelling
• Converting a house into a business or childcare centre

Your DA explains what you want to build, where, and how it fits (or doesn’t fit) with local planning rules.

Getting DA approval is one of the most important steps in any property project. It ensures your development is legal, safe, and compatible with the area—and sets the foundation for a successful build.

🔍 What Does the Council Look At?

When your DA is submitted, council planners will assess things like:

✔️ Zoning — what the land is legally allowed to be used for

🌧️ Overlays — is the land in a flood, bushfire, or heritage zone?

📏 Design and layout — are the buildings the right height, size, and setback?

🚧 Impact — will it affect traffic, neighbours, trees, or the streetscape?

🏡 Character — does it blend with the local area?

When it ticks the right boxes—or includes good reasons for variation—your DA can be approved with conditions.

If you’re not sure where to start, or whether your site even can be developed, ZONAL can help. We’ll assess your land, flag any red tape, and map out the best approval pathway —saving you time, money, and stress.