DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION PROCESS
When is a Development Application Required?
A development application is required if a proposed land use or development is identified within the NT Planning Scheme as requiring consent.
A development application is also required for the subdivision or consolidation of land.
How do I make a development application?
A development application can be lodged over the counter at either the Katherine or Darwin office of the Department of Planning and Infrastructure or lodged electronically.
A development application consists of the following:
- A completed application form signed by the owner of the land or a person authorised by the owner;
- A Statement of Effect which addresses the requirements of the Planning Act;
- Scaled drawings of the proposal; and
- Payment of the prescribed fee including advertising costs.
What happens after I make an application?
Once a development application is lodged it generally requires public notification including placement of an advertisement in the Katherine Times and placement of a pink Proposed Development Application sign on the property.
A 14 day public exhibition period is required to allow for public comment.
During the exhibition period the application is circulated to Katherine Town Council and relevant government agencies for comment.
The development application is then considered by the Katherine Division of the Development Consent Authority. If an application is outside the Katherine Development Consent Authority area it is considered by the Minister for Planning and Lands.
Meetings are scheduled each month and applicants have the opportunity to attend the meeting to speak in support of their proposal and to answer any questions that the Development Consent Authority may have about the proposal.
People who have made submissions are given the opportunity to attend the meeting and speak in support of their submission.
The Development Consent Authority takes into account a technical assessment of the proposal against the requirements of the NT Planning Scheme, information provided by the applicant, any requirements by service authorities including Katherine Town Council and issues raised by people who made submissions in determining the application.
The Development Consent Authority can consent to a proposal, alter a proposal and consent to the altered proposal or refuse a proposal.
A copy of the determination of the Development Consent Authority is provided to the applicant and any people who made submissions.
How long does the Development Application Process take?
The timeframe from lodgement of a development application to receipt of a decision by the Development Consent Authority typically takes 6 – 8 weeks depending on the complexity of the application and when in the meeting cycle the application was lodged.
Where can I get more information?
Julie Bennett is the Senior Regional Planner based in Katherine.
Julie can be contacted on telephone 8973 8951 or email Julie.bennett@nt.gov.au if you require further advice about the development application process.
For general information on the planning process, including the NT Planning Scheme visit the Department’s website: www.nt.gov.au/planning