A NSW Government website

Assess and regulate

We develop smart policy and assess the state’s most significant infrastructure projects

We assess and regulate projects – including those for the state’s most significant infrastructure – to balance the needs of the NSW community, environment and economy. Learn more about the development assessment process and planning policy.

New apartment building. Canterbury, Sydney, NSW. Credit: NSW Department of Planning and Environment / Salty Dingo
Development assessment

The process for assessing and deciding developments and how they relate to your proposal.

Small shed in a residential backyard.
Planning approval pathways

There are 9 different planning approval pathways in NSW. The size and scale of the development will determine which of the assessment pathways is appropriate.

Panoramic view of Western Sydney Parklands - M7 M4 Motorway Intersection, Sydney. Credit: NSW Department of Planning and Environment / Salty Dingo
State significant projects

The department has an important role in assessing and determining proposals for major development in NSW.