Town Planner Fees for Renovation Projects in NSW

If you’re planning a home renovation, alterations, or additions, hiring a town planner can significantly improve your chances of council approval.

However, understanding town planner fees is essential for budgeting your project.

This guide breaks down the costs associated with engaging a town planner for Development Applications (DAs) and Complying Development Certificates (CDCs) in New South Wales (NSW).

How Much Does a Town Planner Cost for a Home Renovation?

The cost of hiring a town planner depends on several factors, including:

✔ Project Complexity: More intricate projects, such as heritage-listed home extensions or second-storey additions, require more planning work.

✔ Council Requirements: Different councils have unique Local Environmental Plans (LEPs) and Development Control Plans (DCPs), affecting the level of assessment needed.

✔ Approval Type: A CDC is often faster than a full DA, but it depends on whether your project complies with state planning codes.

✔ Service Inclusions: Some planners offer end-to-end services, while others focus on specific tasks like feasibility studies or Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) preparation.

Here’s a breakdown of typical town planner fees for renovation projects in Australia:

1. Initial Consultation Fee 💬

Before committing to a town planner, many firms offer an initial consultation to assess your renovation project and advise on the best approval pathway (DA vs. CDC).

💰 Cost: $250 – $500

📌 Includes:

✔ Site visit or virtual consultation

✔ Review of zoning and planning constraints

✔ General advice on approvals and compliance

📊 According to a 2023 survey of NSW town planners, over 85% of clients proceed with additional planning services after an initial consultation.

2. Development Application (DA) Fees 🏠

If your renovation does not meet exempt development criteria, you’ll need to lodge a Development Application (DA) with your local council. Town planners handle the preparation and submission of the application.

💰 Cost: $2,000 – $5,000📌

📌 Includes:

✔ Preparation of Statements of Environmental Effects (SEE)

✔ Liaison with architects and consultants to ensure compliance

✔ Submission of plans and supporting documents

✔ Council negotiations (basic level)

📊 Council lodgement fees vary but typically range from $500 – $2,500 depending on project value.

When is a DA Required?

A DA is necessary when your home extension or renovation does not meet state or council planning codes, such as:

✔ Exceeding height limits (e.g., second-storey additions)

✔ Non-compliant setbacks from boundaries

✔ Heritage-listed or conservation area properties

3. Complying Development Certificate (CDC) Fees 📜

A CDC is a fast-tracked approval process that avoids the standard DA route if the project meets state planning regulations under the NSW Housing Code or similar codes in other states.

💰 Cost: $3,500 – $6,500

📌 Includes:

✔ Preparation of CDC documentation

✔ Certification that the project complies with state planning codes

✔ Liaison with a Private Certifier or Council Certifier

📊 A CDC can reduce approval times from 3-6 months (DA) to just 2-4 weeks.

🔹 Pro Tip: Many homeowners mistakenly assume a DA is required when a CDC could be a faster option. A town planner can advise if your project qualifies.

4. Additional Services (If Required) 🏗

Depending on your project, you may require additional planning reports, feasibility studies, or council negotiations.

💰 Typical Costs:

📌 Feasibility Studies: $1,000 – $3,000

✔ Determines approval likelihood before formal submission.

📌 Planning Reports (SEE, REF, BIC): $1,500 – $4,000

✔ Statements of Environmental Effects (SEE)

✔ Reviews of Environmental Factors (REF)

✔ Building Information Certificates (BIC) for legalising unauthorised work

📌 Council Negotiations & Objections: $500 – $2,000

✔ Town planners liaise with councils on your behalf

✔ Respond to public objections or requests for modifications

📊 Research shows that professional town planners improve DA approval rates by up to 70% compared to self-submitted applications.

5. Fixed vs. Hourly Rates 💰

Some town planners offer fixed-price packages, while others charge hourly rates, particularly for consulting and council negotiations.

🔹 Fixed Fees: Typically offered for full-service DA or CDC preparation.

🔹 Hourly Rates: $200 – $400 per hour for consulting, council meetings, or project modifications.

📊 Hiring a planner on an hourly basis is more cost-effective for minor consultations but can quickly add up for complex projects requiring ongoing negotiations.

How to Reduce Town Planner Costs

While town planners provide invaluable expertise, here are ways to reduce costs:

✔ Gather as much information as possible before consulting to minimise billable hours.

✔ Ask for a detailed quote upfront to avoid unexpected fees.

✔ Bundle services (e.g., combining SEE preparation with council lodgement) to get a discount.

📊 A recent case study found that homeowners who sought town planning advice before designing their renovation saved an average of $3,000 – $5,000 in unnecessary redesign fees.

Final Thoughts: Should You Hire a Town Planner for Your Renovation?

✅ Increases Approval Success: Reduces rejection risks and accelerates approval timelines.

✅ Saves Money in the Long Run: Helps avoid costly redesigns, delays, or compliance issues.

✅ Handles Complex Applications: Essential for heritage homes, second-storey extensions, or projects in conservation areas.

📞 Need a Town Planner for Your Renovation? StraightLine Town Planning offers the above services at highly competitive price-points.