To build, renovate or develop in the ACT, you might need development application (DA) approval or building approval (BA).
You’ll need relevant approvals and inspections for:
You may also need approvals for:
- works that may have a significant impact on the environment or heritage
- unit titling, or
- designated areas under the control of the National Capital Authority (NCA).
There are a few other types of work that may need other approvals:
- trees
- Address allocation
- driveways
- verges or nature strips
- stormwater easements
- waste management
- pools and spas, or
- telecommunications.
Other approval types
Trees
For any work to existing trees over a certain size, you will need development approval (DA).
To remove or lop a significant tree, you will need to submit a tree activity application. Find out more about trees on private property.
Address Allocation
New or amended address allocation is required if:
- approved development changes the number of units or dwellings
- on corner blocks, a building’s front door or main foyer faces a different road, or
- no address has been previously allocated.
Find out more about requesting a street address.
Driveways
Different approvals apply if you’re:
- building a new driveway
- adding a second driveway, or
- modifying an existing driveway.
Find out what you need to be aware of when you build a driveway.
Verges or nature strips
If the building work will impact an existing nature strip or verge, you’ll need approval.
Stormwater easements
For building work near stormwater easements, you’ll need Stormwater application approval.
Waste management
Sometimes demolition, excavation and construction work create a lot of waste. If the work creates more than 20m³ of waste, you will need to submit a Waste Management and Demolition Plan.
Pools and spas
Swimming pools and spas, fencing and barriers, may need building approval depending on certain exemptions. Find out about home swimming pool safety reforms.
Telecommunications
If you're a developer or owner-builder, there are important Commonwealth telecommunications rules you need to follow. Find out about Telecommunications in new developments.
Contact us
Online: Land, Planning and Building enquiries form
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