Development application process
You may need a planning approval for certain development types under the provisions of the planning schemes currently administered by council.
Council oversees development on the Sunshine Coast in accordance with the Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme 2014. Under the scheme, applicants may need approval for certain developments.
On 3 July 2017, the Planning Act 2016 commenced and established a new planning system in Queensland. This replaces the Sustainable Planning Act 2009.
Applications made before 3 July 2017 are assessed under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009.
You can view these Acts on the Queensland Government Legislation website.
If you need help, please contact council's development services.
You can check Development.i to view details of lodged applications.
Development application forms and checklists
Council has a number of application forms that development applicants must complete depending on the circumstances.
Development assessment rules
The Development Assessment (DA) Rules explain how development applications in Queensland must be lodged, assessed and decided. The DA Rules also outline how to undertake public notification.
Avoiding assessment delays
Follow these helpful tips to reduce delays in the assessment process for your development application.
Water and sewer network application process
Unitywater handles applications for its water and sewerage networks.
Operational work
Operational work is the construction of infrastructure that affects a property or its use.
New roads, road names and street numbering
All new roads, including private roads, created as part of a sub-division application must have council's approval. Find out how to adjust or change existing road names and street numbers.
Request changes or extension to a development 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. Before your development approval lapses you can apply for an extension.
Development incentives
View the available discounts, rebates and concessions on development applications.
Infrastructure contributions rebates policy
The policy allows for infrastructure charges rebates for organisations providing community service facilities.
Infill development incentives policy
The policy provides a reduction in infrastructure charges of 50% for qualifying projects.
Appeals
Find out more about development, building and plumbing application appeals.