A Pre-Allocated Plan Number, or PPN, is a unique number issued by NSW Land Registry Services for a proposed plan before it is ready for lodgment. It identifies the plan during preparation and lodgment, but it is not development approval, a registered plan or a new land title.
A PPN may be used for a proposed subdivision, strata plan, consolidation or other title-related plan work. It helps the surveyor and project team identify the correct proposed plan while the required documents are being prepared.
What Is a Pre-Allocated Plan Number?
| A PPN is | A PPN is not |
|---|---|
| A unique reference number for a proposed plan | Development approval |
| Issued before formal plan lodgment | A registered deposited or strata plan |
| Used while plan documents are being prepared | A new land title |
| Part of the NSW LRS digital lodgment process | Permission to begin construction |
It also does not prove that a proposed plan or development will be approved.
In NSW, a Pre-Allocated Plan Number is part of the digital plan-lodgment process. Since 1 July 2025, plans lodged or re-lodged with NSW Land Registry Services require a PPN and an NSW LRS Connect workspace. A Registered Land Surveyor can arrange the number while preparing a plan for a subdivision, strata development or title change.
Think of it as a file reference for the proposed plan. It gives the project a clear identifier before the final documents are ready.
When Might You Need a PPN?
A Pre-Allocated Plan Number is generally needed when a surveyor is preparing a plan for lodgment with NSW Land Registry Services.
This can include projects involving:
- Torrens title subdivision
- strata subdivision
- land consolidation
- boundary redefinition
- certain title-related plan changes
For example, an owner may want to divide one large block into two separate lots. The final plan needs careful surveying, approvals and lodgement. A PPN helps identify that proposed plan while the work is being prepared.
The same can apply to a townhouse or duplex project that may later move toward strata registration.
Why Is It Arranged Early?
Property plans often involve several people. A surveyor may work with an owner, planner, architect, solicitor, conveyancer, certifier and council.
Having a PPN early helps keep the correct plan information together as the project moves forward.
It can help the team:
- identify the proposed plan clearly
- prepare digital plan documents
- reduce confusion between different project versions
- manage the lodgement process more smoothly
- keep related documents connected to the right plan
It does not remove the need for accurate surveying or approvals. It simply gives the proposed plan a recognised reference before it reaches the final lodgement stage.
Who Organises the PPN?
In most cases, your Registered Land Surveyor will manage the PPN process as part of preparing the plan.
You do not need to understand every technical step before making an enquiry. However, it helps to explain what you are trying to achieve.
Tell your surveyor if you are planning to:
- create new lots
- register a strata plan
- merge adjoining titles
- change an existing title arrangement
- prepare a development for sale or construction
Your surveyor can then explain whether a PPN is needed and where it fits into the project.
Need help with a PPN for an upcoming subdivision or strata project? Speak to the East West Surveyors team about the next steps.
What Information Should You Have Ready?
When you first speak with a surveyor, share any documents you already have. This may include:
- the property address
- title or lot details
- previous survey plans
- architectural or planning drawings
- council approval information
- details of the proposed subdivision or development
- contact details for your planner, solicitor or conveyancer
You do not need every document before making contact. The aim is to give the surveyor a clear picture of the project.
A PPN Is One Step, Not the Whole Process
A Pre-Allocated Plan Number is useful, but it is only one part of a larger property process.
The project may still require site measurements, title research, council approvals, plan preparation, legal documents and formal registration. The exact steps depend on the property and the type of plan being created.
That is why it is important to start with reliable advice rather than assuming every title or subdivision project follows the same path.
Start With the Right Plan
If you are planning a subdivision, strata project, land consolidation or title change, East West Surveyors can help you understand the surveying information needed before lodgment. Explore our land surveying services or contact our team to discuss the next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Pre-Allocated Plan Number the same as development approval?
No. A PPN identifies a proposed plan. It does not approve the development or guarantee that a plan will be registered.
Do I need to apply for a PPN myself?
Usually, a Registered Land Surveyor manages the PPN process while preparing the relevant plan documents.
Can I start building once I have a PPN?
No. A PPN is not building approval. You must still follow the relevant planning, approval and construction requirements for your project.
