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Exempt Development

Aerials, Antennae and Communication Dishes

Installing an aerial, antenna or communication dish may not need planning approval, as an exempt development.

The State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008 identifies specific standards relating to: 

  • masts, aerials or antennaes attached to a mast
  • ground-mounted aerials and antennae
  • attaching an aerial, antenna or communication dish to a building.

The number allowed on a single lot as exempt development must not exceed:

  • a total of 3 aerials, antennae and communication dishes
  • 1 ground mounted mast or antenna.

If there is more than one house on the lot, for example a dual occupancy, one aerial, antenna or dish is permitted for each house.

For a full list of development standards that apply to aerials, antennae and communication dishes under exempt development, please refer to these provisions of the State Policy

Other considerations

  • Before removing or pruning any existing trees or vegetation, check with your council whether you need approval. 
  • All works must be structurally adequate, installed in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications and comply with the Building Code of Australia (BCA).
  • Any structure on or over public land or roads must have approval specifically from the local council or Transport for NSW under the Roads Act 1993 and the Local Government Act 1993
  • Check what land-based policies apply to your lot to ensure exempt or complying development is permitted. Exempt development cannot be carried out on the following land: 
Last updated: 20/06/2023

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