When it comes to building or renovating in New South Wales, understanding your zoning is just the beginning. While the Local Environmental Plan (LEP) sets out the legal framework for land use, the Development Control Plan (DCP) provides the detailed design rules that shape how development must look and function.

If you’re planning to lodge a Development Application (DA), reviewing the relevant DCP is critical.

What is a DCP?

A Development Control Plan (DCP) is a document prepared by local councils under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. It supports the LEP by providing more detailed design guidelines, performance criteria, and objectives for different types of development.

Unlike the LEP (which is legally binding), a DCP is not a statutory instrument—but councils are required to consider it when assessing development applications.

What Does a DCP Cover?

DCPs contain site-specific and development-type-specific controls such as:

• Building setbacks (front, side, and rear boundaries)
• Streetscape and architectural design
• Building height and massing
• Landscaping and tree planting
• Privacy and overshadowing
• Solar access
• Parking and vehicle access
• Waste management
• Heritage and environmental protection

Many DCPs are structured by land use type, such as:

• Residential development
• Commercial and mixed-use buildings
• Industrial or employment lands
• Subdivision and land consolidation
• Alterations and additions

How is a DCP Used?

When you submit a Development Application (DA), the council assesses whether your proposal:

• Meets the objectives and controls in the DCP
• Achieves an acceptable design outcome
• Minimises impacts on neighbours or the environment

You are generally expected to comply with DCP controls. However, if you propose a variation, you must justify how your design still meets the intent of the control (also called a “performance-based approach”).

Example: Residential Design Controls

A DCP might say:

• Minimum 6m front setback
• At least 50% landscaped area
• No more than 2 storeys in height
• Windows should be positioned to prevent overlooking neighbours
• Garages must be behind the building line

If your design deviates from these, the council may require changes or reject the DA.

DCP vs LEP – What’s the Difference?

Local Environmental Plan (LEP): Legal document (statutory), sets zoning and land use rules, controls height, floor space ratio, minimum lot size, must be strictly followed.

Development Control Plan (DCP): Policy/guidance document, details how development should look and behave, controls setbacks, privacy, design, landscaping, can be varied with justification.

How Do I Find the Right DCP?

Each local council has its own DCP, often divided into parts or chapters. You can access it via:

• The council’s website
• NSW Planning Portal
• A planning certificate or DA guide
• Tools like SiteReview.ai, which interpret key development controls for your specific site

Make DCPs Simple with SiteReview.ai

At SiteReview.ai, we extract relevant DCP references and provide a plain-English summary of what rules apply to your block. Whether you're planning a duplex, granny flat, extension, or subdivision, our reports help you:

• Identify key controls early
• Avoid DA delays
• Design confidently with compliance in mind

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are DCPs legally binding?
Not technically—but councils are required to consider them when assessing a DA, and you must justify any variation.

Can I vary from the DCP controls?
Yes, but only if you can demonstrate the design still meets the objective of the control and does not cause unreasonable impact.

Do DCPs apply to complying development?
No. Complying Development (CDC) is assessed under state codes (like the SEPP Exempt and Complying Codes), not the local DCP.

Disclaimers

Legal Disclaimer: This content is intended to provide a general overview of the relevant legislation and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Property and planning laws are subject to change and may vary depending on specific site conditions and council policies. For advice tailored to your circumstances, please consult a qualified legal or planning professional.

General Disclaimer: This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, planning, or environmental advice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the information may not reflect the most recent changes in law or policy. You should seek advice from a qualified professional or relevant authority before making any property-related decisions.