Shop fitouts will be approved within 10 days under a new checklist-style code that bypasses development applications, from next month onwards.
It will allow many businesses, including small retailers, to skip the development application process altogether when moving into and fitting-out a new shop or improving their existing buildings.
The NSW Commercial and Industrial Code will potentially save small retailers and other businesses thousands of dollars, NSW planning minister Kristina Keneally said.
The Property Council of Australia (PCA) has calculated the 10-day approval could save retailers up to $4,500 each in rent savings.
The Code introduces state-wide rules for internal fit-outs, minor works such as awnings and signage and changing the use of existing retail, commercial office and industrial facilities.
Applications involving structural alterations or fire safety measures will require a 10-day approval from an accredited certifier or a council.
"If just 10 per cent of the state’s retail tenancies use the Code each year, between them they would potentially save $40 million dollars per year," Keneally said.
"This does not include savings for commercial office or industrial businesses, which could add up to tens of millions of dollars more.
"This first stage release of the Code is strongly welcomed as a key part of the Government’s planning improvements," PCA NSW executive director, Ken Morrison, said.
"Future stages of the Code that cover new buildings and external additions will be highly anticipated by industry."
