Statement of Environmental Effects 

Example Template

What is a Statement of Environmental Effects?

A Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) is an essential document required to accompany most Development Applications (DAs) in New South Wales.

It provides an analysis of the potential environmental impacts of a proposed development and outlines the measures that will be taken to mitigate these impacts.

Properly preparing a SEE is crucial for demonstrating compliance with planning regulations and ensuring a smooth approval process.

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Purpose and Importance of a Statement of Environmental Effects

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The SEE serves multiple purposes, including:

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• Explaining the objectives, details  and scope of the proposed development.

• Identifying all potential environmental impacts of the project.

• Proposing mitigation strategies to minimise or eliminate adverse effects.

• Demonstrating that the proposal aligns with all applicable planning controls, policies and environmental standards.

• Addressing potential concerns raised by the community or regulatory authorities.

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By addressing these points, the SEE helps council assess whether the proposed development is appropriate for its context and complies with all legislative requirements.

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When is a SEE Required?

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A SEE is a requirement for most DAs under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000.

While some minor projects may not require extensive analysis, even simple developments such as small residential additions, internal alterations or minor land-use changes typically need a basic SEE .

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For more complex projects or those in environmentally sensitive areas, a more detailed SEE is necessary. The scope and depth of the SEE depend on the nature, location, and scale of the proposed development.

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Key Components to Include in a Statement of Environmental Effects

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A comprehensive SEE should address whichever of the following aspects are relevant to ensure it adequately supports the DA:

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1. Site Analysis and Suitability

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• Evaluate the physical characteristics of the site, including slope, soil stability, potential flooding, and bushfire risk.

• Assess the site's accessibility to transport links, community facilities, and other essential services.

• Consider compatibility with the surrounding environment, focusing on the visual and aesthetic integration into the streetscape or landscape.

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2. Land Use History

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• Document the site’s current and previous uses, providing a clear understanding of its development history.

• Address any existing constraints or obligations, such as easements or covenants, that may impact the proposed development.

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3. Environmental Impacts

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• Discuss potential impacts on biodiversity, including flora, fauna, and ecological habitats.

• Highlight potential water quality or air quality issues resulting from the development.

• Include relevant technical studies, such as hydrological or geotechnical reports, especially for projects involving significant excavation or construction.

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4. Heritage Considerations

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• Identify whether the site contains or is near heritage-listed properties, archaeological sites, or conservation areas.

• Prepare a Heritage Impact Statement, if required, to outline how the development respects and preserves cultural or historical significance.

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5. Traffic and Access

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• Assess the likely effects of the development on local traffic conditions, including potential congestion or changes to road usage.

• Propose solutions for parking, access points, and safe entry/exit for vehicles and pedestrians.

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6. Noise, Vibration, and Light

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• Analyse potential sources of noise and vibration during construction and operation.

• Evaluate light spill and glare issues, particularly for developments operating at night, such as restaurants or warehouses.

• Provide mitigation measures to address these impacts.

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7. Social and Economic Impacts

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• Outline the positive or negative effects the development will have on the surrounding community, including employment generation, service provision, or changes to property values.

• Address potential community concerns by highlighting the project’s contributions to local development and infrastructure.

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8. Utilities and Infrastructure

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• Confirm the availability and adequacy of essential services such as water, electricity, sewerage, and telecommunications to support the development.

• Outline plans for extending or upgrading existing infrastructure if necessary.

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9. Waste Management

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• Provide a detailed strategy for managing construction and operational waste.

• Include plans for waste minimization, recycling, and appropriate disposal methods to reduce environmental impacts.

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10. Stormwater and Drainage Management

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• Detail the systems proposed for handling stormwater, ensuring compliance with relevant water management guidelines.

• Discuss measures to prevent flooding, erosion, and water pollution.

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11. Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

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• Highlight energy-saving features and environmentally sustainable practices incorporated into the design.

• Include compliance with standards such as the Building Sustainability Index (BASIX) for residential developments.

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12. Visual and Aesthetic Integration

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• Discuss how the development complements the surrounding built and natural environment.

• Include plans for landscaping, façade treatments, and architectural design elements that align with local character and expectations.

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13. Mitigation Measures

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• Provide a detailed plan for minimising negative environmental impacts during construction and throughout the operational phase of the development.

• Address specific concerns such as dust suppression, noise control, and sediment management.

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Supporting Documentation

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In addition to the SEE, the following documents may need to be submitted as part of the DA package:

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• Site plans and elevation drawings.

• Floor plans showing the internal layout and proposed use of each area.

• Landscape plans detailing plant species, hardscape features, and irrigation systems.

• Traffic and parking studies for developments expected to significantly alter local transport patterns.

• Environmental studies, such as ecological assessments or water management reports.

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Additional Considerations for Applicants

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Pre-Application Consultation

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• Early engagement with planning professionals or council representatives can clarify the requirements for the SEE and DA.

• Pre-application meetings help identify potential challenges and ensure the proposal aligns with local planning controls.

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Professional Assistance

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• Preparing a SEE can be a complex and time-intensive process, especially for larger developments. Engaging professionals such as StraightLine Planning town planners, environmental consultants  and StraightLine Planning architects can ensure the SEE addresses all relevant issues effectively.

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Customisation for Specific Proposals

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• Tailor the SEE to reflect the unique characteristics and constraints of the site and the proposed development.

• Include site-specific mitigation strategies to address identified impacts comprehensively.

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Clarity and Completeness

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• Use clear, concise language and organise the document logically to make it easy for decision-makers to review.

• Ensure all claims are supported by data, technical studies or  expert opinions where necessary.

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Outcome of a Well-Prepared SEE

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A comprehensive SEE that thoroughly addresses all relevant issues can:

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• Reduce the likelihood of delays or rejections during the DA assessment process.

• Enhance the decision-makers’ confidence in the project’s compliance with planning controls.

• Improve community acceptance of the proposal by demonstrating a commitment to mitigating environmental impacts.

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