Development and Building
Planning and Design Code
PlanSA helpline - 8456 4840 or email DPTI.PlanningReform@sa.gov.au
On July 31, 2020, the South Australian Planning and Design Code will replace all council development plans to become the single source of planning policy for assessing development applications across the state.
For clear and up-to-date guidance on the planning system, please click here
Additionally, the 2016 Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act will come into effect.
Any applications or enquiries submitted from 31 July 2020, will be assessed under this new legislation which may have different zoning rules, requirements, planning considerations and planning pathways to the previous system. However, any applications that are formally lodged prior to 31 July 2020 will still be assessed under the 1993 Development Act and 2008 Planning Regulations.
To discuss your proposal and the relevant policies please call the PlanSA helpline on 8456 4840 or email DPTI.PlanningReform@sa.gov.au for assistance in understanding the online Code.
Online Applications through the ePlanning Portal:
Along with the new planning system, the ‘ePlanning portal’ will be rolled out in South Australia. Essentially applications are no longer physically lodged with Council but you will now upload your application online anytime through your computer, phone or tablet.
Applicants will also be able to track and monitor the progress of their application, pay fees and receive information requests from accredited planning and building officers, for planning and building information.
The ePlanning portal will also be South Australia’s planning hub for the community for planning information, mapping programs and checklists to help determine if a development even requires approval.
For further information on the ePlanning Portal, visit www.saplanningportal.sa.gov.au
Wastewater Systems
You can also submit your wastewater Application Form and accompanying plans electronically by emailing bbc@bbc.sa.gov with ‘Attention EHO’.
Alterations to, and new sanitary plumbing, septic tanks and effluent disposal system still require an application and approval prior to any work commencing and all plumbing work must be carried out by a licensed plumber.
Applications are assessed against the SA Health On-site Wastewater System Code.
Mandatory Notifications
Building Inspections
If your development application was lodged and assessed through the Plan SA online system – all mandatory notifications must be submitted via that system and not directed to Council.
The mandatory notification stages during building work can include:
- The commencement of building work;
- The placement of concrete into any footing excavation; or the placement of stumps a bearers;
- The intended completion of the wall and roof frame (excluding external linings);
- After installation of wet area flashings and linings prior to tiling;
- The completion of building work prior to occupation;
- The placing of water into a swimming pool/spa;
- The completion of construction of a child safety barrier (fence) in association with a swimming pool/spa.
The Decision Notification Form for your development approval will outline the specific notification stages that you must adhere to.
The notification of stages of building work requires at least one business day's notice.
If construction commences and Council has not received the mandatory notifications, Council is empowered to stop building work while the matter is rectified and could also issue fines or other orders as warranted against the person responsible for the work.
Wastewater System Inspections
The SA Public Health (Wastewater) Regulations 2013 requires people to notify Council at certain stages during wastewater works including:
- Underfloor sanitary drains and plumbing
- External drains
- Septic tanks
- Aerated wastewater treatment (AWTS) tanks
- Soakage trenches
- Irrigation areas
- Trade waste pre-treatment devices (i.e. grease arrestors)
A person is required to notify the Council office 24 hours prior to inspection and stop work pending an inspection by an authorised officer.
It is the responsibility of the installing plumber to ensure there is a current wastewater approval issued by Council prior to undertaking any wastewater system works, including installation of sanitary drains and plumbing. Please contact Council if you require a copy of wastewater approvals.
How can I notify Council?
Notification during the stages of wastewater system works can be provided to Council either:
In person: At the Council Office, 5 Riverview Drive, Berri
Phone: 8582 1922
Email: bbc@bbc.sa.gov.au