NSW codes for exempt and complying development

As from 27 February 2009 changes to what can be done as exempt and complying development in Randwick City commenced. The NSW Government as part of its ongoing planning reforms has introduced State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Codes) 2008 (Codes SEPP). The policy provides exempt and complying development codes that have State-wide application. 

Under the Exempt Development Code, a range of minor developments around the home can proceed as exempt development without planning approval, subject to specified limits and requirements.

Consequently, from that date the exempt development provisions (for the development types covered by the Codes SEPP) in Council's DCP for Exempt and Complying Development will no longer apply.

Under the General Housing Code residential developments, including detached and two storey dwellings, home extensions and other ancillary development can proceed on lots 450sqm and greater as complying development, requiring only a complying development certificate from Council or an accredited certifier.

On 7 September 2009 an amendment to the SEPP introduced the General Commercial and Industrial Code  and the Housing Internal Alterations Code.

Transitional arrangements apply for complying development have now been extended of the operation of the Codes SEPP. Applicants can until 31 December 2010, choose to carry out complying development under the Codes SEPP or Council's existing complying development provisions.

A number of provisions which exclude specified land from the Codes SEPP apply such as a heritage item, heritage conservation areas and foreshore scenic protection areas.

A copy of the Codes SEPP and further information on the General Housing Code and the General Commercial and Industrial Code is available at Department of Planning website.

For further information please email codes@planning.nsw.gov.auor call the Department of Planning's Information Centre on Freecall 1300 305 695 or 02 9228 6333.