What Is a Development Approval?

A Development Approval (DA) is formal consent from your local council that allows you to carry out proposed works that impact land use, zoning, or planning controls. In Brisbane, this can include changes to:

  • Site coverage
  • Setbacks
  • Building height
  • Overlays (e.g. flood, bushfire, heritage, neighbourhood character)


DA approval is separate from a building permit and must be granted before building works or demolition can begin.

Why is this Needed?

A DA is required when your proposal:

  • Doesn’t meet the acceptable outcomes in your zone
  • Involves design or use changes in regulated areas
  • Falls within overlay triggers (e.g. heritage, flooding, small lots)


It ensures your project complies with Brisbane City Plan 2014 and protects local amenity, safety, and infrastructure.

How it Works

2. Select: “Prepare and lodge an application

3. Scroll to Step 1: Prepare

  • Download and complete:
  • DA Form 1 – Development Application Details
  • DA Form 2 – Building Work (if applicable)
  • Prepare required documentation, including:
  • Site plan and proposed design
  • Planning report
  • Supporting technical documents (e.g. flood or bushfire assessment)

4. Go to Step 3: Lodge

  • Click “Lodge an application”
  • Upload all forms and supporting documents
  • Pay the applicable fee (based on scope)

5. Wait for assessment

  • Response typically within 20–30 business days
  • Council may issue an RFI (Request for Further Information)

Once Received

Once you've received your Development Approval, upload it to the Document Library and then click the orange “Mark Complete” button to move to the next step in your construction workflow.