Submitting a Building Project to Council on the Mid North Coast: What You Need to Know
If you’re planning to design and build a sustainable home on the Mid North Coast of NSW—whether in Bellingen, Coffs Harbour, Dorrigo, Sawtell, Urunga or surrounding areas—you’ve probably heard the phrase “submit to council”. But what does that really mean for homeowners wanting to create a Passive House, natural building, or energy-efficient home?
The approval process exists to ensure that local, state, and federal planning objectives are met. While it can feel daunting with so many rules and regulations, understanding these requirements helps your project flow smoothly instead of becoming a roadblock. For those seeking eco-friendly homes, healthy homes, or natural building methods on the Mid North Coast, knowing the process is essential to turning your vision into reality.
What Needs to Be Submitted?
Typically, council submissions include:
Architectural drawings
Consultant reports such as bushfire, ecological, heritage, or BASIX/NatHERS energy ratings
Title information and survey documents
These are the foundations for council approval whether you’re planning a new Passive House build in Bellingen Shire or an alterations and additions project in Coffs Harbour.
The Three Main Approval Pathways
Complying Development Certificates (CDC)
A CDC suits simpler projects like houses on straightforward sites or small additions (pergolas, decks etc.). To qualify, projects must meet strict guidelines around building height, setbacks, and floor area. Approval can be fast-tracked through council or a private certifier.
Development Applications (DA)
More complex projects—including many custom homes, Passive House designs, or natural building projects—require a DA. Council assesses how your design will impact infrastructure, neighbours, and the wider community. DA drawings should show:
External finishes and materials
Building heights and form
Window and door placements
Service connections
Site analysis
Site coverage and access
Design compliance
DAs are processed through the local council planning department, but larger projects may be escalated to the state planning office.
Construction Certificates (CC)
Once your DA is approved, a CC ensures your home meets the National Construction Code (NCC). This covers safety, structural integrity, bushfire compliance (BAL ratings), and energy efficiency requirements. A CC may be issued through council or a private certifier.
Exempt Development
For very minor works (like small garden sheds or fences), no approval may be required. These are outlined in the State Environmental Planning Policy: Exempt and Complying Development Codes 2008.
Who Can Help?
While your local council planning officer can explain which pathway applies, your Architect will take care of the process. At Grounded Works , we specialise in helping Mid North Coast clients design Passive House homes that use natural building techniques to create sustainable architecture that inspires.