Planna prepares comprehensive Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE), Preliminary Planning Reports (PPR) and Town Planning Reports for council approval. Fast and reliable.
When is a Development Application (DA) Required?
A Development Application (DA) is required by Northern Beaches Council for developments such as new dwellings, dual occupancies, secondary dwellings (granny flats), townhouses, residential alterations and additions, apartment buildings, commercial developments, and changes of use for businesses including cafes, restaurants, gyms, and retail shops. Northern Beaches Council was formed through the amalgamation of Manly, Warringah, and Pittwater Councils. Due to this amalgamation, planning requirements vary across the region.
Therefore, applicants must carefully review applicable local planning instruments, including:
State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008
Northern Beaches Local Environmental Plan (LEP) 2022
Manly Local Environmental Plan 2013 (still applicable in former Manly Council areas)
Pittwater Local Environmental Plan 2014 (for former Pittwater areas)
Warringah Local Environmental Plan 2011 (for former Warringah areas)
Northern Beaches Development Control Plan (DCP) 2022
Manly DCP 2013, Pittwater DCP 2014, and Warringah DCP 2011 (still applicable in their respective former council areas)
Given the Northern Beaches' coastal character and significant environmental sensitivity, planning controls focus heavily on coastal management, flood and bushfire risk, biodiversity conservation, view sharing, and urban design compatibility.If you’re uncertain of your best development pathway or exploring multiple project options, starting with a Preliminary Planning Report (PPR) is highly recommended. Planna’s PPR provides clear guidance, outlining relevant zoning, local planning controls, site constraints, and suitable approval pathways tailored specifically for your site within Northern Beaches.
Northern Beaches Council takes a thorough and detailed approach to development assessment, driven by the area's unique environmental context, coastal settings, and community priorities. Following the completion of a Preliminary Planning Report, the next crucial step is preparing a comprehensive Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE). This document must clearly demonstrate how your proposal complies with local planning controls and addresses critical local factors, including coastal erosion, biodiversity protection, view management, neighbourhood character, and potential impacts like privacy and overshadowing.Given the area's sensitivity, your SEE may require additional specialist documentation such as arborist reports, coastal hazard assessments, flood studies, or biodiversity impact statements, depending on your location and site-specific conditions. Planna specialises in preparing detailed, site-specific SEE reports tailored precisely to Northern Beaches Council’s rigorous standards and local expectations. Our thorough documentation significantly enhances the efficiency and likelihood of your DA's approval, helping you smoothly progress your project within Northern Beaches Council.
What is
Planna is an Australian based team of expert town planners, leveraging an innovative approach to securing council approval. With our proven method, you can submit your Development Application in days, not weeks. Planna specialised in comprehensive Statement of Environmental Effects, and Preliminary Planning for council approval.
Same day report delivery
Money back guarantee on reports
A message from Planna
You're not alone,
We were frustrated with the standard town planning approach: waiting months for reports and spending thousands of dollars. Town Planners charging for admin when you only really need the core reports for a Development Application. Whether it’s a renovation, changing the use of your business, or a tricky development, you might be asking:
- Do I have to wait 6-12 weeks for a town planner?
- How do I meet all of the compliance requirements?
- How can I maximise my outcomes?
- How can I increase my chances of approval?
With our proven method, you can submit your Development Application in days, not weeks. And if council isn't happy with your Planna Report (unlikely), we will give you a full refund.
Sincerely,
Features
98% approval rate over 3000+ submissions
Free consult with registered Town Planner
Quality guarantee or money back
Compliant with all Acts, Regulations, SEPP, LEP, DCP, and NSW Councils
Proven Process
Claim your free consultation, or give us a call
We identify the best path to approval
Your reports are prepared by our in-house team of town planners and ex-council officers
Receive your finalised reports within 48 hours - ready for council submission, with quality guaranteed
Frequently asked questions
With Planna, you can get your Development Application package ready for submission within 24 hours; council assessment times vary.
Planna is on average 80% cheaper than traditional town planners, with the same outcome. Most firms will charge you thousands for admin, when you really only need the core deliverables.
With a 98% approval rate, we ensure your reports will meet all council requirements. If the council does request additional information, we can easily update this through the dashboard.
Our team of expert planners and ex council officers are on hand to provide support, justifications and report reviews throughout the process.
We used Planna for our renovation. It was cheaper and faster than traditional firms. Highly recommended for any project.
— Frances and John, Albury, NSW
Planna made our development process possible. Detailed reports and quick compliance checks avoided long waits and high costs. Great alternative for quick planning services.
— Michael and Lisa, Melbourne, VIC
