Development advice services
By seeking advice in the early stages of a proposal, you can identify and address issues. This can improve the quality of your application and save money.
Council’s advice services can help you understand what supporting information you may need before you lodge your application.
We can help you to clarify process and timeframes, advise of the relevant legislative and planning scheme requirements, and identify any specific technical issues.
Online tools and self-service information
Before you seek advice, check out our self-service options:
- Development.i - Stay informed of all development applications in the Sunshine Coast local government area.
- Site Report - Free general town planning and zoning information for individual properties.
- Building and development fact sheets and guides for help with the planning scheme
- Report a plumbing, building or development issue online.
Which Development Advice Service suits your needs?
Council offers a range of development advice services to help customers at all stages of their planning and development journey.
Request initial advice
| Chat to a Development Information Officer | Pre-purchase meeting | Sunshine Coast Design advice meeting |
Request Written Advice or Pre-Assessment Services
| Written Advice | Pre-assessment of technical reports | Plan sealing pre-assessment service |
Request a meeting
| Pre-lodgement meeting | Personalised case management | Operational work pre-design advice meeting |
Please note: These services do not provide an indication of support or otherwise for a particular development proposal. Any advice provided does not constitute approval.
In some circumstances, you may wish to change your development approval and Council may need to approve these changes before you can start your project.
Council encourages you to seek advice from Development Services to confirm any change application process and what information you need to provide.
Find out how to apply for a change to your development approval or request a generally in accordance letter.
Visual guides
Check out our poster to help you in your development and planning journey.
Our brochure explains each development advice service, helping you achieve the best development outcomes possible.
Fees
Fees for Development Advice Services are listed in the Development Services Register of Cost Recovery Fees and Charges.
Council considers requests for refunds as per the Development Services Register of Cost Recovery Fees and Charges.