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Question of Week: Do I need Council approval for my renovations?

Kempsey Shire Council

An aerial shot of South West Rocks

Whether you need development consent from Council depends on the scale and potential impacts of your project.
Many minor home renovations and projects (such as a small garden shed) don’t need planning or building approval and are classed as exempt development.
Other straightforward, low-impact residential developments that do require planning approval may qualify for a fast-track approval process known as complying development.

If your development doesn’t meet the criteria for exempt or complying development, you’ll need to apply for development consent from Council and lodge a development application (DA) through the NSW Planning Portal.

As planning approval pathways in NSW are very complex, we recommend you visit the for information on the requirements for different types of development.

Depending on your situation, you may wish to from Council or consult a professional for advice and help with your development application.

Each week we answer a question you’ve asked our Customer Service team. Don’t forget to check in weekly to find out what your community is asking and how Council can help you.

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