Development Application (DA)

In New South Wales, Council approval for development projects is known as Development Application approval (DA). These applications are submitted to the local council or ‘consent authority’ for approval on various property projects such as sheds, decks, new houses, granny flats, multi-residential buildings, or subdivisions. Most developments necessitate some form of approval.

Applicants can submit their approval applications through the New South Wales Planning Portal (https://www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/). This online portal streamlines the process by sending applications directly to the council for review and assessment. The centralized system allows applicants to track the progress of their application and promptly respond to council requests.

To determine if you need a DA for your project, consider the specific guidelines and requirements outlined by your local council.

Complying Development Certificate (CDC)

A Complying Development Certificate (CDC) Approval is granted by either a private certifier or the council under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008. These guidelines offer flexibility compared to exempt guidelines within the same code, but all criteria must be met for eligibility. If the proposal exceeds SEPP controls, it will necessitate a Development Application (DA). CDC applications address both planning compliance and structural compliance.

To access these guidelines, you can: 1) Research the SEPP, 2) Consult a town planner for a CDC review, or 3) Obtain a PlanDAT report.

The CDC application typically involves the submission of a Full Drafted/Architectural Planset, Engineering Planset from the kit supplier, and required insurance documents. After preparation, these documents are submitted to the chosen certifier for CDC approval, which may also include an assessment of a Section 88b certificate and 10.7 Planning certificate. Once CDC approval is granted, inspections are conducted according to the certifier’s schedule.

Construction Certificate (CC)

A Construction Certificate (CC) is issued either following or concurrently with Development Approval (DA). This application focuses on the structural aspects complementing the planning component of the DA. It includes the assessment of structural engineering plans, often provided by the kit supplier, as well as addressing DA conditions of approval issued by the council. The proposal also considers final water authority approval and builder details, enabling the appointed certifier (private or council) to conduct inspections during the build stage of the project.