What is a Complying Development Certificate?

In New South Wales, a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) is a streamlined approval process that provides Complying Development Consent for low-impact developments that meet pre-determined planning and building requirements. A CDC is a fast-tracked alternative to a full Development Application (DA) and allows for quicker approvals, often within 10 days, through either the local council or a private certifier.

A Complying Development Certificate (CDC) is a form of Development Consent that applies to certain residential, commercial, and industrial projects, including:

- New homes and homes extensions‍‍
- Granny flats (secondary dwellings)
- Garages, carports, decks, and pergolas
- Swimming pools and boundary fences
- Minor commercial and industrial developments

To qualify for a CDC, the development must comply entirely with the NSW Complying Development Code. If a project meets these strict guidelines, it can obtain Complying Development Consent without the need for a full Development Application (DA). However, if the proposal does not meet all required standards, a standard Development Consent through the local council will be necessary.

A CDC is the fastest way to gain Development Consent in NSW, significantly reducing approval timeframes compared to a DA. To check if your project qualifies for Complying Development Consent, visit the NSW Planning Portal or consult a private certifier or your local council.

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