Pre-Development Application (Pre-DA) Advice Service

Swimming Pool 3

Burwood Council provides a Pre-DA advice service that allows applicants to submit a preliminary proposal and obtain advice prior to lodging a formal Development Application (DA).

The purpose of a Pre-DA is to identify potential issues early and provide preliminary design guidance. This collaborative approach helps develop mutually acceptable solutions and supports a smoother assessment process. Pre-DAs are particularly important for heritage items or where you are seeking variations to controls.

If your proposal does not comply with relevant planning controls or is unsuitable for the site, Council will advise whether it should proceed to a formal DA.

To apply for Pre-DA advice, complete the web form below:

Pre-Development Application Form

 

Benefits of Seeking Pre-DA Advice

While not mandatory, lodging a Pre-DA can:

  • Help identify and address potential planning issues before finalising your design
  • Provide early feedback that can guide the formal DA process
  • Reduce the risk of refusal or delays due to substantial changes or incomplete information

Under the Minister’s Statement of Expectations Order, councils must assess applications within set timeframes. If an application requires significant amendments or additional documentation that takes time to prepare, you may be asked to withdraw it or face refusal. Engaging in a Pre-DA can help avoid these issues.

 

What to Expect – Receiving Feedback

All Pre-DA applicants will receive formal written advice that:

  • Outlines relevant planning controls that apply to your site
  • Identifies any issues with your proposal and provides recommendations for addressing them
  • Lists any supporting documentation you may need to include in your future DA (e.g. Arborist Report, Heritage Impact Statement)

 

Types of Pre-DA Advice Available

Council offers a range of Pre-DA services tailored to your needs, including:

  • Simple written advice for a single question
  • Meetings followed by written advice
  • Early scoping meetings for State Significant Development Applications (SSDA)
  • Pre-lodgement meetings for Planning Proposals

 

Booking and Timeframes

If a meeting is requested, it is typically scheduled 21 days from the date of lodgement and payment. You will be contacted with an allocated time, which can be adjusted to meet your availability. Meetings are conducted either in person at Council’s office or online.

Written advice will be provided after the meeting. For any follow-up meetings, a 75% discount on the applicable fee may apply.

 

Fees and Application Process

Fees for Pre-DA services vary depending on the type and scale of development.

Further information on fees can be found here.

 

Contact Us

If you require further information please contact Council's Development Enquiry Officer on 9911 9911 or council@burwood.nsw.gov.au.

 

 

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