1. Site Survey & Geotechnical Report

• Obtain a detailed site survey: Include boundaries, levels, existing structures, and utilities (e.g., stormwater, sewer lines).

• Commission a geotechnical investigation: Confirm soil type, bearing capacity, and any risks (e.g., erosion, slippage, or contamination).

• Why? These inform foundation design and ensure compliance with local council requirements.

2. Structural Engineering Scope

• Define your project’s structural needs: Identify load-bearing elements, materials (e.g., concrete, steel, timber), and any special features (e.g., cantilevered designs).

• Engage a structural engineer early: Get preliminary advice to align with architectural plans.

• Pro Tip: Early engineer input prevents costly redesigns during DA review.

3. Stormwater & Drainage Plan

• Map existing drainage systems: Check how water flows on and off your site.

• Plan stormwater management: Ensure compliance with council’s water-sensitive urban design (WSUD) policies (e.g., detention tanks, raingardens).

• Consult a hydraulic engineer: Confirm pipe sizes, drainage routes, and flood risk mitigation.

• Why? Poor drainage plans are a common DA rejection reason.

4. Traffic & Access Engineering

• Assess vehicle access: Confirm driveways, parking, and turning circles meet council standards.

• Check pedestrian safety: Ensure pathways comply with accessibility requirements.

• Prepare a traffic impact statement (if required): For larger projects, engage a traffic engineer to analyse local road impacts.

• Note: Small projects may only need basic access plans, but check council guidelines.

5. Environmental & Energy Compliance

• Review BASIX/Nathers requirements: Ensure your design meets energy efficiency standards.

• Address environmental constraints: Check for bushfire, flood, or heritage overlays requiring special engineering solutions.

• Consider sustainable engineering options: E.g., solar passive design or recycled materials.

• Why? Councils prioritise sustainability in DA assessments.

6. Engineering Documentation

• Compile engineering drawings: Include structural, hydraulic, and civil plans as required.

• Ensure compliance with Australian Standards: E.g., AS 2870 for residential slabs, AS 4100 for steel structures.

• Get engineer certifications: Most councils require sign-offs from qualified engineers.

• Pro Tip: Use a checklist provided by your local council to cross-check requirements.

7. Coordinate with Other Consultants

• Align with your architect/planner: Ensure engineering plans integrate with architectural drawings.

• Check DA submission deadlines: Confirm all engineering reports are ready for lodgment.

• Budget for engineering fees: Factor in costs for reports, certifications, and revisions.

• Why? Misaligned plans or missing documents delay DA approvals.

8. Pre-Submission Review

• Double-check council’s DA guidelines: Each local government has unique engineering requirements.

• Conduct a self-audit: Use a DA lodgment checklist (often available on council websites).

• Consider a pre-DA meeting: Book a consultation with council planners to flag potential issues.

• Note: Pre-DA meetings are especially helpful for complex or non-standard projects.