Questions & Answers

Do neighbours get to see all of the plans submitted with the DA?

Yes, neighbours can generally see the plans and documents that form part of a publicly available DA. They are usually accessible through ACT Planning’s website and DA Finder+ during the DA process.

However, this does not necessarily mean they see every document exactly as it was submitted for assessment. Some information is removed or presented differently for privacy.

For example, residential applications have a separate Floor Plan – Public Register & Notification. ACT Planning specifies that this version does not show internal walls, although it still identifies room uses, external doors and windows, and external dimensions.

Other information can also be excluded from public inspection in limited circumstances, such as where disclosure could reveal a trade secret or create specified safety or property risks.

Reference: ACT Planning – After you apply – Public notification – https://www.planning.act.gov.au/applications-and-assessments/development-applications/after-you-apply

Last reviewed: 9 September 2026 Information current as at: 13 September 2026

Short Answer

Generally, yes. During the DA process, ACT Planning generally makes the plans and supporting documentation submitted with the DA available for public inspection, meaning neighbours and other members of the public can view and download them. However, some information may be withheld or provided in a redacted/public-register version for privacy or confidentiality reasons.

Detailed Explanation

Public notification is a formal part of the ACT DA process. ACT Planning states that it will generally make DAs “including all associated plans and documentation” available for inspection online. The documents can be viewed and downloaded by members of the public, not only adjoining neighbours.

This public availability can also extend beyond the documents originally lodged. ACT Planning states that DA information made publicly available includes:

  1. submitted DA documentation and plans;
  2. documentation provided in response to further information requests;
  3. documentation submitted with DA amendments;
  4. further information requests and other relevant assessment information; and
  5. approved plans following determination. 

There are, however, privacy and confidentiality controls. Applicants are required to provide redacted versions of documents suitable for public release where applicable. For residential floor plans specifically, the public-register version removes internal walls for privacy purposes.

The public register also allows certain information to be excluded in limited circumstances, including where publication could disclose a trade secret, endanger someone's life or physical safety, or reasonably lead to damage to or theft of property.

Example: For a residential DA, a neighbour could generally view documents such as the site plan, elevations and the public-register floor plan. However, they would not necessarily have access to the same detailed residential floor plan used internally for assessment, because the public version removes certain internal information for privacy.

Key Point

No minimum block size does not remove the need for planning assessment.

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