What Council Approvals Are Required Prior to Building
Building a new home or undertaking a major renovation in South Australia is an exciting process, but before construction can begin, there are a few critical steps to ensure your project meets all necessary regulations. You will be required to obtain Development Approval (DA), which involves obtaining both Planning Consent and Building Rules Consent. Here’s an overview of the approvals required before you can start your building project in South Australia.
Development Approval (DA)
In South Australia, Development Approval (DA) is a combined approval process that involves two components: Planning Consent and Building Rules Consent. Both are essential before your project can proceed.
Planning Consent
Planning Consent ensures that your project complies with local zoning and land use regulations. It’s the council’s way of ensuring your development fits within the broader vision for the area and that it adheres to the objectives of the local planning policy.
- Zoning and Land Use: The council will check whether your property is zoned for the type of development you are proposing (e.g., residential, commercial, or mixed-use).
- Setbacks and Height Restrictions: Planning Consent ensures your building complies with rules regarding setbacks (distance from boundaries), building height, and other spatial guidelines.
- Local Development Plan Compliance: The council will also assess whether your project adheres to the guidelines of the Development Plan, which outlines how land in a specific area can be used.
Building Rules Consent
Once your project has received Planning Consent, the next step is Building Rules Consent. This approval ensures that your building plans comply with The Building Code of Australia (BCA).
- Structural Integrity: Building Rules Consent checks that your design is structurally sound and safe.
- Energy Efficiency: Your plans must meet the energy efficiency standards set by the council to ensure sustainability and lower environmental impact.
- Compliance with Safety Standards: This includes ensuring that your building meets fire safety, accessibility, and other critical building safety measures.
Once both Planning Consent and Building Rules Consent are granted, the council will issue Development Approval (DA), which officially permits the construction of your project.
