FAQs

01/

Do you ensure my development will be approved?

Planning Portal Specialists do not guarantee development approval. Our role is to act on your behalf and submit the information you provide to the certifier or planning portal. Approval is entirely at the discretion of the authority assessing the application.

We rely on you to provide accurate and complete documentation. While we do not assess the merits of your proposal, we do ensure that your application is submitted correctly, efficiently, and in accordance with NSW Planning Portal requirements.

Our team will also alert you if the information provided appears unsuitable for submission or if additional documents are required.

Please Note:

  • We simply act as your specialist to lodge applications.

  • It is your responsibility to consult your council or certifier to determine what is needed and whether your proposal is likely to be approved.

  • Make sure all information is accurate and liaise with your consultants—such as your architect, builder, or town planner—to confirm plans and reports are correct.

  • Reminder: We only lodge the information you provide.

02/

How do I submit information to Planning Portal Specialists?

You can forward your documents via:

  • Email

  • Post (electronic versions on USB or disc)

  • Directly from your consultants, such as your builder, architect, town planner, or certifier.

We will compile the information and lodge it via the NSW Planning Portal. We’ll also provide you with necessary forms—such as owner consent forms—and guidance to assist with your submission.

03/

What plans and documents are required?

Unsure of what's needed? No problem. Planning Portal Specialists will give you a checklist tailored to your application.

Be sure to check directly with your council or certifier for their specific requirements. We act solely to lodge the application on your behalf via the NSW Planning Portal.

04/

Who pays the council or certifier fees?

All council or certifier fees must be paid by you, directly to the relevant authority.

  • These fees will be outlined once your application is lodged.

  • Applications typically cannot proceed until these payments are made.

  • We will notify you of all payment requirements when they are provided to us.

Please Note:

Our fee covers the lodgement service only. All other development or approval fees are separate and paid directly to the council or certifier.

Tip: Always contact your council or certifier to understand the full range of fees before lodging.

05/

What are common fees for DAs, CCs, or CDCs?

DA (Development Application) fees vary—check with your council.

  • CDCs and CCs handled by certifiers must include a written fee proposal (contract) by law.

  • Additional common fees include:

    • Section 7.11 or 7.12 contributions

    • Long Service Levy

    • Security bonds

    • Sydney Water and other service provider fees

Make sure you’re aware of all applicable costs before submitting your application.

06/

What happens if my application is rejected or more information is needed?

If your application is rejected or additional details are requested, Planning Portal Specialists will notify you promptly.

You will need to provide any missing or revised information within the timeframe given by the council or certifier. Once received, we will re-lodge the updated information on your behalf.

Common reasons for rejection:

  • Incomplete or incorrect documentation

  • Outdated reports (e.g. BASIX Certificates older than 3 months)

  • Council-specific requirements not being met

Good news: Our service includes all required re-lodgements up until a final determination is made.

07/

Do you prepare plans, reports, or other documents?

No, Planning Portal Specialists do not prepare or create any reports, plans, or documentation. We only lodge what you provide.

It’s essential that you have all the necessary, high-quality documents ready before starting the lodgement process. Poor or incomplete submissions can lead to delays, rejection, or refusal.

However, we can assist by referring you to trusted consultants within our network for help with documents such as:

  • Statement of Environmental Effects

  • Waste Management Plans

  • Clause 4.6 Variation Reports

  • DCP Variation Statements

  • NCC/BCA Compliance Reports