Car Parking for Change of Use DA Approval

When determining car parking requirements, the Development Control Plan (DCP) for the area is a good starting point. Most DCPs for larger Councils include a table that specifies the minimum parking requirements for different types of development. These requirements are typically based on the minimum rate per square meter of floor area. For instance, offices tend to have higher rates, while warehouses have lower rates.

While changing the use of site, Designing a development requires careful consideration of car parking spaces and their types. The provision of appropriate parking is crucial in Development Applications, particularly for developments that are likely to generate a significant demand for parking, such as health facilities, schools, shopping centers etc.

Apart from the DCP, car parking requirements can also be found in the Local Environmental Plan (LEP), certain State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPPs) e.g. SEPP for Senior Living & Affordable Housing, and the RTA Guide to Traffic Generating Developments. Council DCPs also provide guidance on car parking design, bicycle or motorbike parking, and may require a parking study for large developments.

Off-street parking design must comply with the Australian Standard 2890, which contains standards for car parking spaces, driveways, and facilities. It is recommended to ensure that proposed car parks meet the standard before lodging an application as most Councils will assess applications according to this standard.