Planning a subdivision in Sydney and wondering how long it will take? Understanding the timeline helps you plan your project, arrange finance, and set realistic expectations for when you can sell or develop your new lots.
In this guide, we break down each stage of the subdivision process with realistic timeframes based on our experience working across Sydney councils.
Subdivision Timeline Overview
| Stage | Typical Duration |
|---|---|
| 1. Initial Survey & Plan Preparation | 2-4 weeks |
| 2. DA Lodgement & Assessment | 3-6 months |
| 3. DA Determination | 1-2 weeks |
| 4. Construction Works (if required) | 4-12 weeks |
| 5. Final Survey & Plan Lodgement | 2-4 weeks |
| 6. Subdivision Certificate | 2-4 weeks |
| 7. NSW LRS Registration | 2-4 weeks |
| TOTAL | 6-12 months |
Stage 1: Initial Survey & Plan Preparation (2-4 weeks)
The process starts with a subdivision survey. We visit your property to:
- Identify existing boundaries and any encroachments
- Capture site features for the plan
- Design the proposed lot layout
- Prepare the draft plan of subdivision
This stage typically takes 2-4 weeks, depending on property access, site complexity, and how quickly you provide required information.
Stage 2: DA Lodgement & Assessment (3-6 months)
This is usually the longest stage. Once your DA is lodged, council will:
- Check the application is complete
- Notify neighbours (14+ days)
- Refer to internal departments and external agencies
- Assess against planning controls
- Request additional information (adds 2-4 weeks each time)
Council Assessment Times Across Sydney
Assessment times vary significantly by council:
- Fast councils (6-10 weeks): Some outer-ring councils with dedicated subdivision teams
- Average councils (3-4 months): Most Sydney metropolitan councils
- Slow councils (4-6+ months): Inner-city councils, councils with high DA volumes
Stage 3: Construction Works (4-12 weeks)
If your DA approval includes conditions requiring works, these must be completed before final subdivision. Common requirements include:
- Driveway construction for battle-axe lots
- Stormwater drainage works
- Sewer or water connection extensions
- Kerb and gutter works
Simple works take 4-6 weeks; major infrastructure can take 12+ weeks.
Stage 4: Final Survey & Registration (4-8 weeks)
Once any required works are complete, we conduct the final survey to mark the new boundaries. The final plan is then lodged with council for a Subdivision Certificate, then registered with NSW Land Registry Services.
What Causes Delays?
Common factors that extend subdivision timelines:
- Incomplete applications: Missing documents trigger requests for information
- Non-compliant designs: Lot sizes, setbacks, or access that don't meet requirements
- Neighbour objections: Council must consider and respond to submissions
- Agency referrals: Sydney Water, Ausgrid, or RMS referrals add weeks
- Infrastructure requirements: Unexpected drainage or service upgrades
- Council staff changes: Your application may be reassigned
How to Speed Up Your Subdivision
- Pre-DA meeting: Meet with council before lodging to identify issues early
- Complete application: Lodge with all required documents first time
- Respond quickly: Address council requests within days, not weeks
- Consider CDC: If eligible, a Complying Development Certificate takes only 20 days
- Use experienced consultants: Surveyors who know your council save time
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does subdivision take in Sydney?
Subdivision in Sydney typically takes 6-12 months from start to finish. A straightforward 2-lot subdivision usually takes 6-8 months. Complex subdivisions with infrastructure requirements or multiple lots can take 12-18 months or longer.
How long does council take to approve a subdivision DA?
Council DA assessment for subdivision in Sydney typically takes 3-6 months. Simple subdivisions may be approved in 6-10 weeks, while complex applications can take 6+ months.
What is the fastest way to subdivide in Sydney?
The fastest way is a Complying Development Certificate (CDC), which can be approved in 20 days. However, CDC subdivisions have strict criteria and most subdivisions require a DA.
How long does the subdivision survey take?
The survey work typically takes 4-8 weeks total, including initial plan preparation (2-4 weeks) and final survey after DA approval (1-2 weeks). Actual time on your property is usually just 1-2 days.
Ready to Start Your Subdivision?
Contact us to discuss your subdivision project. We'll assess your property, explain the likely timeline for your situation, and provide a quote for the survey work.