DA, building approval or accepted work: what’s the difference?
In Queensland, a home project can need a planning approval (often called a development application, or DA), a building approval from a building certifier, both, or neither.
Some small work is “accepted building work” under the Building Regulation 2021, with no building approval, but only if it meets every listed limit. Overlays and local planning rules (for example flood, bushfire or character overlays) can require a planning approval before the building permit. If a design doesn’t meet the boundary setbacks in the Queensland Development Code, a design and siting referral to council is needed.
ClearDA can’t give, grant or lodge any approval. Our free screener shows what may apply to your job and who handles it.
Councils
General information only, not advice. ClearDA kits and the screener give general information drawn from official sources. They are not legal, planning, building, engineering or financial advice, and they are not a council's or building certifier's decision. Rules change, and council requirements, planning scheme overlays (such as flood, bushfire or heritage overlays) and site conditions vary from property to property. Each kit shows the date its sources were last checked, and doesn't cover changes after that date. Before you act, always confirm with your local council, a building certifier or another QBCC-licensed or suitably qualified professional, and use a licensed tradesperson where the law requires one.