Do all DA conditions need to be satisfied before construction starts?
No. Not all DA conditions necessarily need to be satisfied before construction starts. The Notice of Decision determines when each condition must be satisfied. Some conditions apply before the DA takes effect or before construction commences, while others apply during construction or after construction. Any condition specifically requiring something to occur before construction or a particular stage of development starts must be satisfied before that work begins.
No. You only need to satisfy the DA conditions by the particular time stated for each condition.
For example, your DA might contain:
- a condition requiring amended plans to be endorsed before construction starts;
- requirements that must be followed during construction; and
- landscaping or other works that must be completed after construction or before completion/occupation.
So receiving DA approval does not mean you can immediately start building. You need to read the Notice of Decision and identify which conditions must be completed first. ACT Planning specifically states that DA conditions can require things to be done before, during or after construction.
Reference: ACT Planning – After you apply ? DA assessment process and considerations - https://www.planning.act.gov.au/applications-and-assessments/development-applications/after-you-apply
Link on the answer: https://www.planning.act.gov.au/applications-and-assessments/development-applications/after-you-apply
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| Dual Occupancy Q&A | #508 | agrees | 27/08/2026 |