Dealing with Council

Navigating Development Approvals in NSW

At McKees Legal Solutions, we understand that successful property development hinges on effective collaboration with local councils. Our approach is built on strong relationships, deep industry knowledge, and a commitment to achieving positive outcomes without unnecessary legal battles.

The Importance of Council Relationships

In the property development landscape of New South Wales, your local council holds the key to your project's success. We've cultivated robust relationships with councils across NSW, the Land and Environment Court, and a network of industry experts. These connections allow us to:

  1. Facilitate smoother communication between developers and council officials

  2. Anticipate potential hurdles in the approval process

  3. Find collaborative solutions that satisfy both developers and council requirements

Understanding the Development Approval Process

Obtaining development approval in NSW involves navigating a complex regulatory landscape. Here's what you need to know:

Why Development Approval is Necessary

Development approval ensures compliance with state and local planning regulations. It considers factors such as:

  • Population growth and demographic changes

  • Economic growth and urban renewal

  • Heritage considerations

  • Environmental factors (flood and fire zones)

  • Zoning requirements

  • Sustainability goals

  • Community impact

  • Access to public utilities

Key Documents for Development Approval

Your application will typically require:

  • Site plans and elevations

  • Title deeds and applicable covenants

  • Drainage and retention information

  • Proof of compliance with zoning requirements and council schemes

  • Traffic flow and car-park requirement compliance

  • Estimated development cost

  • Completed development application form

Costs and Timeframes

  • Application fees are calculated based on the estimated development cost and specific council fees

  • Additional costs may include construction certificate fees, inspection fees, and service connection fees

  • Uncomplicated applications typically take around 40 days for approval

Our Approach: Collaboration Over Confrontation

While we're well-versed in Land and Environment Court proceedings, our primary focus is on avoiding court whenever possible. We believe that proactive engagement and strong relationships with councils often lead to more efficient, cost-effective outcomes.

Our strategy includes:

  1. Early Engagement: We initiate discussions with council early in the process to identify potential issues and align expectations.

  2. Comprehensive Preparation: We ensure all documentation is thorough and compliant, reducing the likelihood of delays or rejections.

  3. Mediation and Negotiation: When conflicts arise, we prioritise mediation and negotiation to find mutually beneficial solutions.

  4. Strategic Advice: We provide guidance on how to structure your development plans to align with council objectives and increase approval chances.

Why Choose McKees for Council Dealings

Our deep understanding of both the legal framework and the practical realities of council operations allows us to bridge the gap between developers and local authorities. We don't just navigate the system – we work to build lasting, productive relationships that benefit all parties involved.

Let McKees Legal Solutions be your partner in achieving smooth, efficient development approvals. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you navigate your next project through the council approval process.