Can ACT Planning require changes even if the plans meet the Technical Specifications?
Yes, potentially. Meeting the Planning Technical Specifications does not automatically guarantee DA approval. The Technical Specifications provide benchmarks for addressing technical matters, but ACT Planning must still assess the proposal against the relevant Assessment Outcomes, mandatory Assessment Requirements and other applicable planning considerations.
Yes. Even if your plans meet all the relevant Technical Specifications, ACT Planning may still identify aspects of the proposal that need to change.
The Technical Specifications cover measurable matters such as setbacks, building height, building separation, parking and tree canopy. However, they are supporting benchmarks rather than a guarantee that the overall development is acceptable. ACT Planning expressly states that the Technical Specifications are not rules and compliance is not mandatory, and meeting all relevant specifications does not guarantee DA approval.
For example, a dual occupancy might meet the numerical requirements for height and setbacks, but ACT Planning could still identify an issue with how the development responds to its site, adjoining development or another relevant Assessment Outcome.
If ACT Planning considers that the proposal does not meet the Territory Plan requirements and is heading towards refusal, it may provide pre-decision advice identifying the issues and recommending changes.
Reference: Advisory Note 06 – Planning Technical Specifications : Planning Technical Specifications
Link on the answer: https://www.planning.act.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/2322998/an06-technical-specifications-in-the-planning-system.pdf
Where this question is kept
| Dual Occupancy Q&A | #529 | agrees | 31/08/2026 |