Service

DA Modifications and Council RFI Responses

Section 4.55 modifications to approved DAs, and structured responses when council asks for more information.

Two things stall approved and pending projects: a design change after consent, and a council letter asking for more information. Both have a planning answer.

For changes to an approved DA, URBA prepares the section 4.55 modification application with the comparison of approved and proposed, the assessment of the change and the updated compliance tables. For requests for information, we prepare a point-by-point response with the planning justification and coordinate the consultant inputs so the DA is not deferred a second time.

Who this is for

Builders needing to change an approved design
Owners who received a council RFI or a deferred commencement condition
Applicants whose DA has been recommended for refusal

What the report or service includes

Section 4.55(1), (1A) and (2) modification applications with SEE addendum
RFI response letters with clause-by-clause replies
Amended compliance tables and variation justifications
Coordination with the designer and consultants on amended drawings
Advice on review of determination (section 8.2) options

How it works

Step

Review

We read the consent or the council letter and tell you what is actually being asked.

Step

Plan

Which items need drawings, which need reports, which need argument.

Step

Response

A single, complete submission to the Planning Portal.

Step

Follow-up

We stay on the file until the determination.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between section 4.55(1A) and 4.55(2)?

Section 4.55(1A) is for modifications of minimal environmental impact and is assessed quickly. Section 4.55(2) covers larger changes where the development remains substantially the same as approved, and involves notification and a fuller assessment.

How long do I have to respond to an RFI?

Councils usually set 14 to 28 days. If more time is needed, ask before the deadline; most councils grant a short extension in writing.

Where we provide this service

Across Sydney, Western Sydney, the Central Coast, the Hunter, the Illawarra and regional NSW. See the areas we service for council-specific notes, including Blacktown, Penrith, The Hills, Liverpool, Camden and the Central Coast.

Services that often go with this one

Reading

Guides related to modifications and rfi responses

15 Sep 2026