Your Guide to DA vs CDC UNDERSTANDING DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS (DA) AND COMPLYING DEVELOPMENT CERTIFICATES (CDC) IN NSW
When building a home, there are two approval pathways in NSW: a Development Application (DA) or a Complying Development Certificate (CDC). We need to obtain one of these approvals before construction of your new home can begin. Each pathway differs in process, timing, and flexibility, so our team will guide you every step of the way. We determine which pathway your build can take by assessing your proposed home design and block of land against both Council (DA) and CDC requirements. Your Sales Consultant will help identify the most suitable approval pathway for your home and, if needed, adjust the design to meet the relevant criteria. Where possible, we aim to proceed via CDC, as it is typically faster and avoids the extended timeframes associated with Council (DA) approvals.
DA vs CDC: The key differences This guide provides an overview of the key differences between DA and CDC. It is intended as a general overview only, as each build is unique, and requirements vary depending on location and land conditions.
TOPIC
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION (DA)
COMPLYING DEVELOPMENT CERTIFICATE (CDC)
Application Lodgement
We will lodge your DA with Council via the NSW Planning Portal.
We will lodge your CDC with our Private Certifier via the NSW Planning Portal.
The application is assessed and approved by a Private Certifier (an independent, registered building surveyor). We will obtain most of the required documents. Some items may be needed from you and will be outlined in your Tender and discussed along the way. CDC approvals are usually faster, but timing depends on your Council area and specific land requirements. Because every build is different, we are unable to provide exact timeframes. One set of consistent rules, known as the CDC code, applies across all NSW Councils. These rules must be strictly met, with no flexibility. Neighbours are notified but do not have the opportunity to provide feedback. In some cases, additional Council approvals for items such as stormwater management, driveways or tree removal, may still be required. A CDC is generally a faster process. There is no need for a separate Construction Certificate (CC), and because we work closely with the Private Certifier, the approval process can often be streamlined.
Assessment & Approval
The application is assessed and approved by your local Council.
We will obtain most of the required documents. Some items may be needed from you and will be outlined in your Tender and discussed along the way.
Documentation
Council approval times can vary significantly and are outside of our control as the builder and applicant. Generally, DAs take longer to be approved than CDCs.
Timeframes
Each Council has its own Development Control Plan (DCP), which sets out specific requirements. These requirements are subject to interpretation by Council and its Assessing Officers. A requirement of a DA is to also notify neighbours of the proposed building works and give them the opportunity to provide feedback. One of the advantages of a DA is that it gives you more flexibility with your home design. Tree removal can also be included as part of the DA which means you don’t need to lodge a separate application. A separate Construction Certificate (CC) must be obtained from our Private Certifier after DA approval is received, and before construction can commence. The CC confirms that all Council conditions and National Construction Code (NCC) requirements are met. In addition, Council’s interpretation of plans can vary and can be difficult to predict. Unlike with a Private Certifier, we don’t have a working relationship with Council and cannot influence the assessment process or timeframe.
Planning Rules & Requirements
Pros
With a CDC, there is no flexibility so your design must fully comply with all CDC rules. Some additional Council approvals may still be required for stormwater management, tree removal or driveways.
Cons
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