The NSW Department of planning and infrastructure has updated the State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008 (Codes SEPP). This is part of NSW Department of planning and infrastructure ongoing commitment to improving the planning system. 

This update includes over 100 minor amendments to streamline exempt and complying development pathways including:

• identifying changes to what you can do to your home or business without needing approval including installing air-conditioning on multi storey apartment buildings or making repairs and/or alterations to existing homes
• clear rules around complying development for dual occupancies and multi-dwelling terraces
• making it easier to understand the rules around running farm experiences, farm stays alongside farming operations.

They have also made it easy to understand the process for managing and removing asbestos. 

Each year, more than 30,000 developments—valued at nearly $12 billion—are carried out as complying developments under the Codes SEPP. The goal is to ensure the policy remains clear, accessible, and easy to use.

For more information about the amendments, please visit and download the fact sheet documents below:

• Essential Codes SEPP updates

• The updated asbestos guidance

For enquiries on the Codes SEPP, please contact codes@planning.nsw.gov.au.

Members with questions are encouraged to contact the Master Builders Housing and Technical department on housing@mbansw.asn.au or 02 8586 3555.