How do I check my property's zoning in NSW?

Enter your property address in ZoneScout's search bar. We query the NSW Planning Portal API directly and return your zone (e.g. R2 Low Density Residential), applicable LEP, floor space ratio, height limits, minimum lot size and overlay information instantly and for free.

What is the difference between CDC and DA in NSW?

A Complying Development Certificate (CDC) is a fast-track approval issued by a private certifier in as little as 10 days. A Development Application (DA) goes through full council assessment and typically takes 3-12 months. CDC requires meeting every standard exactly, while DA allows more flexibility but takes longer.

Can I build a granny flat on my property?

In NSW, granny flats (secondary dwellings) up to 60sqm are permitted in all residential zones (R1-R5) on lots of at least 450sqm with 12m minimum frontage. They can often be approved via CDC without council involvement. Use ZoneScout to check your property's zoning and lot size.

Is ZoneScout free to use?

Yes, ZoneScout is completely free. We connect directly to state government planning databases across all Australian states and territories. There is no subscription or hidden fee.

Free Planning Tool — All Australian States & Territories

Know your property's real potential

Zoning, overlays & development analysis for any Australian residential address — instant, accurate, and completely free.

Powered by real government spatial data from planning databases across all Australian states and territories. Built for homeowners, investors, and developers.

Granny flat & secondary dwelling eligibility
Dual occupancy & subdivision potential
Height, floor-space & minimum-lot controls
Heritage, flood & bushfire overlays

12 Sample Street

Example report · NSW

NSW

R2 Low Density Residential

Max height8.5 m

Min lot size450 m²

Floor space ratio0.5 : 1

OverlaysNone mapped

Secondary dwelling likely permitted via CDC

Real government spatial data

Every state & territory

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Search Property

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Enter an address to locate the property

Your property report starts here

Search any Australian address to see live zoning, planning controls, overlays and development potential — straight from government data.

Fetching planning data...

Geocoding address

Fetching zoning, height & planning controls from state Government

Fetching cadastral lot dimensions

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Could not fetch planning data

Please check the address and try again, or get a free planner review.

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Land Zoning

Max Height

Floor Space Ratio

Min Lot Size (Subdivision)

Planning Overlays (State Data Only)

🔗 Verify on State Planning Portal →

📍 Current Lot

Lot Area

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Lot Width

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Lot Depth

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Frontage

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📈 Area Market

📄 DA History

Development Potential

🤖 Heads up! Our AI uses real government zoning data but occasionally gets creative with interpretation. General guidance only — not professional planning advice. Always verify with your council or state planning portal. If something looks off, contact us and a real planner will check. 👷

🚧 Site features matter! Large or protected trees, significant slopes, easements, sewer mains, retaining walls and existing structures can all affect what you can build — but aren't captured in planning data. Always inspect the site before committing to a development path.

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Next Step — Find Required Documents

Select your preferred approval pathway to see the likely documents required for submission to council.

Ready to take the next step?

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