Development application enquiries

If you need to lodge a development application (DA), we can help you work towards a successful outcome as quickly and cost-effectively as possible. You can access advice at our Duty Counter or request a pre-lodgement meeting.

The benefits of pre-lodgement advice are:

• an early understanding of what you're trying to achieve
• agreement on what is required or possible on the proposed development site
• early access to professionals who may assess your application, saving you time and money in preparing your application.

Frequently asked questions

To help you get started on your development, we've provided answers to many frequently asked questions about development in Port Stephens. View our DA FAQs.

Duty Counter advice

If you're not sure about any aspect of your application, we offer free advice from 8:30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. You can call 4988 0255 or visit us in person at our Administration Building.

This option is recommended for less complex applications like dwellings, dual occupancy development and minor residential works like swimming pools, sheds, carports and garages.

Pre-lodgement meetings

For more complex matters, we recommended you request a pre-lodgement meeting with our staff.

Depending on the scope of your development, we can arrange for you to get general advice from our planners, building surveyors, engineers and ecologists.

This meeting will help you identify the relevant statutory requirements and will highlight potential issues that may arise during the assessment process—ensuring a more efficient assessment time frame. Our staff cannot prepare your development documentation or provide legal advice.

Pre-lodgement meetings are held at Council’s Administration Building or via Zoom if required and incur a fee. If you wish to obtain minutes from the meeting, an additional fee is charged. All fees are in accordance with the Port Stephens Schedule of Fees and Charges.