Operational works

The Planning Act 2016 defines Operational work (OPW) as 'work, other than building work or plumbing or drainage work, in, on, over or under premises that materially affects premises or the use of premises'.

Examples of operational work include but are not limited to:

  • changes to ground level
  • clearing trees and vegetation
  • landscape works
  • constructing a non-standard driveway / vehicular crossing (VXO).
  • providing infrastructure to Council such as:
    • stormwater
    • water
    • sewerage
    • roads
  • undertaking prescribed tidal works or works in a coastal management district.

When is an Operational works application required?

Operational work is assessable development if the works are triggered under the relevant tables in the City Plan (Section 5.8) or if it is elevated to assessable development through an overlay in Section 5.10 of the City Plan.  In addition, operational works such as prescribed tidal works may be assessable development where it is determined assessable under Schedule 10 of the Planning Regulation 2017.

For information on Operational works types, refer to Related information links.

For information on post OPW private landscape approval requirements, refer to Post operational works landscape approval resources(PDF, 110KB).

How to apply

Use this form to apply for an Operational works application. Fees apply. Refer to our Register of fees & charges for details.

Refer to How to lodge development application for information on application forms and other relevant supporting documentation.

For more information please contact us on 07 5582 8708.

Online

Step 1.Gather your documents

Refer to the list of application forms in the section below. Complete the relevant forms and prepare your supporting documentation.

Step 2.Complete the application

Once you have all your supporting documentation, download, print and complete all forms.

Step 3.Submit our online form

Submit online form

In person

Step 1.Gather your documents

Refer to the list of application forms in the section below. Complete the relevant forms and prepare your supporting documentation.

Step 2.Complete the application form

Once you have all your supporting documentation, download, print and complete all forms.

Step 3.Visit one of our customer service centres

Submit your application and pay at one of our customer service centres Monday to Friday between 8.15am and 4.30pm.

By mail

Step 1.Gather your documents

Refer to the list of application forms in the section below. Complete the relevant forms and prepare your supporting documentation.

Step 2.Complete the application form

Once you have all your supporting documentation, download, print complete and complete all forms.

Step 3.Send us your completed application and payment

Post to:

Planning Assessment, City Development
Economy Planning & Environment
PO Box 5042
Gold Coast MC QLD 9726

Application for operational works

The below form/s and the State Government DA Form 1 must be completed and submitted to the City at the time of lodgement.

Application for approval of street lighting

The below form/s and the State Government DA Form 1 must be completed and submitted to the City at the time of lodgement.

Application for tree removal on private land

The below State Government DA Form 1 and site plan for tree works must be completed and submitted to the City at the time of lodgement.

Combined applications

You will need to submit a combined application if you have 2 or more of the following application types to be submitted together:

  • Material change of use
  • Reconfiguration of a lot
  • Operational works - excluding tree works applications

Visit our Combined development applications webpage.

Related information

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