Complying Development Certificate (CDC)

A CDC offers a quicker approval process, bypassing the need for multiple local Council approvals. This streamlined pathway saves time and reduces costs, making it a more efficient choice for many development projects.

Projects that typically qualify for a CDC include:

• New dwelling houses
• Secondary dwellings (granny flats)
• Home extensions and any structural alterations & additions.
• For certain commercial and industrial developments, eligibility depends on meeting specific criteria set by local regulations.

The CDC approval process involves:

• Consulting with a certifying authority (Council or Private Certifier).
• Preparing and submitting essential documents, including site plans, compliance reports, and consultant documentation, such as structural designs, hydraulic designs, and energy assessments.
• The certifying authority assesses your application.
• Upon approval, a CDC is issued, and plans are stamped, allowing your project to start without further Council approval.

The key benefits include:

• Faster approval times compared to the traditional DA process.
• A simpler, more straightforward procedure.
• Cost savings on approval fees and holding costs.
• No interference from neighbours
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and standards from the outset.

Approval times for a CDC are generally faster than the traditional DA route. Once all documents are submitted, approvals can be granted within one month of lodgement, allowing for a quicker project start.

Commonly required documents include:

• Site Plans
• Architectural drawings
• Compliance reports
• Certificate of title
• Third-party consultants –
  • Stormwater design
  • Structural design
  • Energy Efficiency / Basix Certificate
  • BAL Certificate (Bush Fire Attack Level)
• Building specifications Additional documents may be needed depending on the project and certifying authority requirements.

Once a CDC is issued, you can commence your building work immediately. Throughout the construction phase, the certifying authority will conduct regular critical stage inspections to ensure compliance with the approved plans and relevant standards. After the construction is completed, a final inspection will be performed to issue an occupation certificate, confirming that the building is safe and meets all regulatory requirements.