Understanding Your Approval Pathway: DA vs Section 68 for Expandable Homes

When it comes to installing an expandable or prefabricated home on your property, securing the correct planning approval is essential. In most residential areas, homeowners have two primary pathways to gain council approval: the Development Application (DA) route or the Section 68 application for manufactured homes. Each has its advantages and is suited to different project needs. Here's what you need to know.

Development Application (DA): The Traditional Pathway

A Development Application (DA) is the most common approval route for secondary dwellings or permanent installations. It involves submitting plans and documents to your local council for formal assessment.

Ideal for:

• Larger dwellings

• Sites requiring design flexibility

• Long-term occupancy and full utility connections

  
  

What’s involved:

• Architectural plans and floorplans

• Structural engineering certification

• BASIX certificate (for sustainability compliance)

• Drainage and stormwater plans

• Environmental impact documentation

• Construction Certificate and final inspections

  
  

While this path can be more comprehensive, it provides a formal approval framework for a wide range of dwelling types — including expandable homes designed to be permanent installations.

Section 68 Application: For Manufactured Homes

The Section 68 application applies when your dwelling qualifies as a manufactured or relocatable structure. This pathway is typically simpler and more cost-effective than a full DA, making it ideal for many prefabricated or expandable units.

Ideal for:

• Lightweight, modular, or expandable homes

• Projects prioritizing faster approvals and lower upfront costs

• Installations not requiring a full DA process

  
  

Key requirements:

• Site plan and layout

• Structural certificate from a qualified engineer

• Drainage/sewer connection plan

• Council fee and application submission

  
  

Section 68 approvals are handled under the Local Government Act, and in many cases, councils will accept this path for homes that meet structural and compliance requirements as manufactured dwellings.

Which Path is Right for You?

Choosing between DA and Section 68 depends on your block, the design of the home, and council-specific regulations. For example:

• If your block has planning restrictions or custom requirements, DA may be more appropriate.

• If you’re installing a standard or expandable model classified as a manufactured home, Section 68 may be the faster option.

How We Support You

At Expandable Homes, we assess every property individually. Based on your address and site layout, we’ll advise on the most suitable approval pathway and provide support including:

• Preliminary feasibility review

• Introduction to qualified planning consultants

• Full cost breakdowns

• Documentation coordination from start to finish

You can view our full process overview and cost estimate to better understand what’s involved at each stage.

Ready to Begin?

Contact our team with your property address and we’ll conduct a free preliminary assessment to determine feasibility. From there, we’ll guide you through either the DA or Section 68 process with transparency and expert support.