New NSW planning rules have changed when neighbours must be notified about development applications, meaning some locals may no longer receive a letter about what is being proposed nearby.
A significant change to the NSW planning system came into effect on 1 September 2026, introducing one set of community consultation rules across the state.
The new Statewide Community Participation Plan replaces the individual plans previously used by councils and planning authorities.
For residents across Randwick, Waverley, Woollahra, Bayside and the City of Sydney, the change means some development applications that previously may have triggered neighbour notification will no longer automatically require it.
In simple terms, you may not always receive a letter telling you about a development being proposed nearby.
What could you stop being notified about?
Some developments considered lower impact no longer automatically require formal public exhibition, provided they meet the relevant planning requirements.
This can include:
- Dwelling houses up to two storeys
- Certain alterations and additions
- Dual occupancies up to two storeys
- Attached or multi dwelling developments of up to five homes
- Secondary dwellings
- Some demolition and subdivision applications
- Pools, sheds, pergolas and carports
- Some tree removal applications
- Many modification applications
This does not mean every proposal in these categories will avoid notification. The exact development, its location and the planning controls that apply will still matter.
Does this mean locals no longer get a say?
No. Larger and higher impact developments will still require public exhibition where the new rules require it.
Residential flat buildings, shop top housing and other significant proposals can still be subject to formal exhibition, giving residents an opportunity to view plans and make submissions.
What has changed is that residents can no longer assume a council letter will always alert them to development activity nearby.
What should locals do now?
If there is a vacant block, demolition, renovation or redevelopment near your home that you want to follow, it may be worth checking your local council development application register rather than waiting for a letter.
If you notice a development application number displayed on a property or hear about a proposal through neighbours, look it up early. Submission periods for applications that do require public exhibition can be limited.
The takeaway for locals is simple. Keep an eye on your street, because your letterbox may no longer tell you everything.
In tightly packed suburbs across Sydney’s east, even smaller developments can affect privacy, sunlight, parking, trees and construction around neighbouring homes.
The planning approval process has not disappeared. What has changed is how some residents may find out about what is being proposed close to home.
The Statewide Community Participation Plan has applied across NSW since 1 September 2026.
