What Is a Landscape Plan for a Development Application?
- Eoin James Campbell
- Jul 16
- 3 min read
If you're preparing a Development Application (DA) in New South Wales, you've probably heard the term Landscape Plan.
Whether you're building a new home, installing a swimming pool, undertaking residential alterations and additions, or developing a multi-dwelling project, your local council may require a professionally prepared landscape plan as part of your application.
But what exactly is a landscape plan, and why is it so important?
A Landscape Plan Is More Than a Planting Plan
In reality, a Development Application landscape plan is a technical document that demonstrates how the outdoor areas of your site respond to the planning requirements of your local council while complementing the proposed development.
It forms part of the overall Development Application package and allows Council to assess whether the landscape design supports the objectives of the development.
Why Do Councils Require Landscape Plans?
Landscape plans help councils assess whether a proposal:
Integrates with the surrounding neighbourhood
Provides adequate landscaping
Retains significant vegetation where appropriate
Meets landscaped area and deep soil requirements
Improves urban tree canopy
Responds to environmental constraints
Provides functional private open space
Supports stormwater management
Creates an attractive and practical outdoor environment
Rather than assessing the building in isolation, councils consider how the entire property will function once construction is complete.
What Does a Landscape Plan Include?
Every project is different, but a typical Development Application landscape plan may include:
Existing and proposed landscape works
Existing and proposed trees
Tree retention and removal
Planting schedules
Botanical and common plant names
Soft landscaped areas
Hard paved areas
Deep soil zones
Swimming pools and surrounding landscape
Retaining walls
Fencing
Existing and proposed levels
Landscape calculations
Material finishes
Landscape notes and specifications
The amount of detail required depends on the scale and complexity of the project and the requirements of the relevant local council.
When Is a Landscape Plan Required?
Landscape plans are commonly required for:
New dwellings
Residential alterations and additions
Swimming pools
Dual occupancies
Townhouse developments
Multi-residential housing
Childcare centres
Commercial developments
Mixed-use developments
In some cases, Council may specifically request a landscape plan after your Development Application has already been lodged through a Request for Information (RFI).
Every Council Has Different Requirements
One important thing to understand is that there is no single "standard" landscape plan.
Each local council has its own Development Control Plan (DCP), which may contain different requirements relating to:
Landscape area
Deep soil
Tree planting
Species selection
Privacy screening
Streetscape character
Stormwater management
Environmental protection
For this reason, a landscape plan prepared for one council may not satisfy the requirements of another.
Understanding the relevant planning controls is an important part of preparing documentation that supports a smooth assessment process.
Who Prepares a Landscape Plan?
Landscape plans are typically prepared by a Registered Landscape Architect or an experienced landscape designer familiar with local planning controls.
A professionally prepared plan doesn't just present a planting layout—it coordinates with the architectural drawings, survey, engineering information and any specialist consultant reports to create a cohesive proposal.
This collaborative approach helps ensure that the landscape works alongside the building, rather than being treated as an afterthought.
Why a Good Landscape Plan Can Save Time
One of the most common reasons for delays during the Development Application process is missing or incomplete information.
A well-prepared landscape plan can:
Demonstrate compliance with council planning controls
Reduce Requests for Information (RFIs)
Coordinate with other consultants
Clearly communicate the design intent
Improve the overall quality of the application
Investing in quality documentation early can often save both time and money during the assessment process.
How Place Supply Can Help
Place Supply provides documentation-focused landscape architecture consulting for residential and commercial developments throughout New South Wales.
We prepare Development Application landscape plans that are clear, practical and tailored to the requirements of individual councils.
Our services include:
Development Application landscape plans
Swimming pool landscape documentation
Residential alterations and additions
Landscape compliance assessments
Deep soil calculations
Planting plans and schedules
Existing and proposed landscape plans
Consultant coordination
Whether you're preparing a new Development Application or responding to a Council Request for Information, Place Supply can help produce professional landscape documentation that supports a successful planning outcome.
Learn more about our consulting services at https://www.placesupply.com.au/consulting.
Final Thoughts
A landscape plan is far more than a planting drawing—it's an essential planning document that demonstrates how your development will function, integrate with its surroundings and satisfy council planning objectives.
By preparing a coordinated, well-considered landscape plan from the outset, you can improve the quality of your Development Application and help streamline the approval process.
If you're unsure whether your project requires a landscape plan, or you've been asked by Council to provide one, Place Supply can help guide you through the process with practical, documentation-focused landscape architecture consulting.
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