Do neighbouring buildings need to be shown on the plans?

Relevant neighbouring buildings should be shown where they help explain how your development relates to the properties around it.

This does not mean every neighbouring building needs to be drawn in full detail. The amount of information required depends on what needs to be assessed.

For example, an adjoining dwelling may need to be shown where its relationship to the proposal is important for assessing privacy, solar access, building separation or other impacts on surrounding development. ACT Planning specifically considers how a proposed development interacts with adjacent development and its suitability within the site and surrounds.

Depending on the issue, neighbouring development could be represented on the site plan, elevations, sections or shadow diagrams.

Reference: ACT Planning – Before you apply ? Prepare your documents - https://www.planning.act.gov.au/applications-and-assessments/development-applications/before-you-apply