What is a Complying Development Certificate (CDC)?

A Complying Development Certificate (CDC) is a combined planning and construction approval for straightforward projects that meet strict design and planning standards.
If your project complies with the rules under the NSW planning system – State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008 (Codes SEPP) – you can skip the traditional Development Application (DA) and secure approval much faster.

CDCs are perfect for a wide range of residential, commercial, and industrial developments, helping you avoid uncertanity and months of red tape.

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Why Choose a Complying Development Certificate?

Fast, predictable, and cost-effective – a CDC gives you a faster start and fewer hurdles compared to a traditional Development Application.

If your project is eligible, a CDC is usually the quickest, easiest, and most predictable way to get your plans moving.

Faster Approvals

Skip the long council delays. Most CDCs are approved within 20 days, helping you start your project sooner and avoid any costly hold-ups.

Simplified Process

Clear rules and fewer hurdles mean a faster, easier approval journey — so you can move forward without the usual paperwork headaches.

Built-In Compliance

Your plans are reviewed against strict codes upfront, giving you confidence that your project is compliant and ready to build.

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Helping you fast-track your CDC with proven expertise

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Expert support for every step of your Complying Development Certificate

We offer full support from start to finish, including:

  • Site Assessment: Checking zoning, land restrictions, and environmental overlays.
  • Pre-application advice: Confirming if your project qualifies for CDC approval.
  • Documentation Preparation: Preparing all forms, plans, reports (e.g NatHERS & BASIX, Waste management, Access), and certificates needed.
  • Submission Management: Lodging your application through the NSW Planning Portal.
  • Coordination with Certifiers: Working with accredited certifiers to review and approve your plans.
  • Liaising with Council (if required): Managing extra steps like driveway approvals or stormwater consents.
  • Ongoing Support: Advising throughout the assessment process until your certificate is issued.

We make sure your application meets all necessary building codes, planning standards, and legislation — avoiding costly mistakes and delays.

What can be approved via a Complying Development Certificate?

Projects commonly approved via CDC include:

New single and two-storey homes

Alterations and additions to existing houses

Swimming pools and spas

Sheds, carports, garages, and pergolas

Secondary dwellings (granny flats)

New Dual Occupancies and Terrace dwellings

Change of use and commercial and industrial projects

We’ll assess your specific project to confirm whether a CDC is the right pathway for you.

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WHY CHOOSE US?

Specialists in Complying Development Certificates

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We focus on fast approvals, clear advice, and making the whole process easier for you.

With specialist experience in CDC projects, we know exactly what it takes to get you building sooner.

The average CDC approval turnaround time once submitted is 20 days.
A CDC can speed up your project approval by up to 85% compared to a traditional DA.
If your plans meet the CDC standards, approval is almost guaranteed.

FAQs

Have questions about how CDCs work? You’re not alone. Here are some of the most common things we’re asked – and how we can help you move forward with confidence.

A CDC is a faster approval pathway for developments that meet specific planning and building standards. Unlike a DA, a CDC doesn’t require a long council review or public consultation, saving you time and paperwork.

Once your application is lodged, CDC approvals are typically issued within 20 days, provided all documentation is complete and meets the standards.

Not always. Your property must meet specific zoning, environmental, hazard and planning controls. We’ll check this upfront to confirm if a CDC is the right option for you.

New homes, renovations, swimming pools, garages, granny flats (secondary dwellings), some dual occupancies, terrace dwellings, change of use and commercial and industrial projects are commonly approved through CDCs — as long as they meet the required standards.

CDCs can be issued by an accredited certifier. Managing extra steps like driveway approvals or stormwater consents can require approval from council. We’ll coordinate everything for you to keep the process simple.

If a CDC isn’t possible for your site, we’ll guide you through the next best option – usually a Development Application (DA).

A CDC can be approved by either an accredited private certifier or a private certifer within council. Our team works closely with trusted certifiers to make sure your application is reviewed properly and approved as quickly as possible.

Typically, you’ll need a 10.7 Certificate, survey plan and architectural plans prepared by a qualified draftsperson or architect, a BASIX Certificate (for residential projects), waste management plan and engineering details (if needed). We’ll guide you through exactly what’s required for your specific project.

Complying Development Certificates P/L

55 Pyrmont Bridge Road, Pyrmont NSW 2009

(02) 8088 0707

admin@complyingdevelopment.net