THE DIFFERENCE AT A GLANCE
Two ways to reach
building approval.
ELIGIBLE COMPLYING DEVELOPMENT
CDC
Planning + construction approval
Combined in one certificate
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION PATHWAY
DA CC
Development consent, followed by
a Construction Certificate
Both pathways still involve the applicable pre-start requirements, inspections and completion certification. Separate approvals may also be needed for particular work.
01
What is a Complying Development Certificate?
A Complying Development Certificate, usually called a CDC, is a combined planning and construction approval for eligible work in NSW. A council or registered certifier assesses the proposal against the applicable rules.
Depending on the site and proposal, this pathway can cover work such as a new home, alterations and additions, a secondary dwelling or a swimming pool. Certain commercial and industrial projects can also qualify.
02
Experienced assessment. Practical communication.
iPermit is experienced in carrying out complying development assessments across regional NSW. We understand the detail behind the application and explain it in practical terms, so you and your project team know what information is needed and why.
We assess the site information, plans and supporting documents, identify matters that need to be addressed and communicate the next steps clearly. You have a team to speak with as the assessment progresses.
- An informed discussion about the proposed work and approval pathway
- Clear requests for the plans, reports and evidence needed for assessment
- An organised approach to certification, appointment and inspection arrangements
03
Could your project use the CDC pathway?
The answer depends on both the land and the proposed work. The relevant code, site constraints and design standards need to be considered together. A similar project nearby does not establish eligibility for your property.
Talk to us while your plans are taking shape. Understanding the requirements early gives you and your designer a clearer basis for deciding how to proceed. A CDC can be issued only when the applicable requirements are satisfied.
04
Start with the information you have.
You do not need to understand the planning terminology before contacting us. Share the address, a short description of the work, the estimated cost of works and any available plans. We will discuss the service and supporting information needed.
For an application, the documents may include title and survey information, site and architectural plans, engineering, specifications and relevant reports. Use our NSW application guide to organise the contract, Portal lodgement and separate principal certifier appointment.
05
Support beyond the approval.
A CDC is an approval milestone. The principal certifier appointment, applicable commencement requirements, inspections and completion certification still need to be coordinated. We explain the services included in our engagement so your project team can plan ahead.
Based in Albury–Wodonga, we work with NSW clients across the Riverina, Wagga Wagga, Griffith, Leeton, Snowy Valleys, Greater Hume and surrounding communities.
LET’S LOOK AT YOUR PROJECT
Start with the address.
We’ll explain the next step.
Have your project location, proposed work, estimated cost of works and available plans ready. Our team will discuss the scope and information needed to assess your CDC application.
Request a quote Preparing to apply? Follow our NSW guideYour questions, answered.
Do I still need a DA or Construction Certificate if I have a CDC?
You do not need a separate DA and Construction Certificate for the work approved by a CDC. It combines those planning and construction approval stages. Other approvals or permissions may still be needed for particular work.
Will a CDC always be quicker or cheaper?
It can offer a more efficient approval pathway for eligible projects, but the outcome depends on the site, design, supporting information and assessment. Our quote sets out our service and fees. We do not promise a particular approval date or saving.
What if my project does not qualify?
We explain the assessment findings so you can discuss the next step with your designer or planner. That may involve revisiting the proposal or pursuing a development application with council, followed by a Construction Certificate for the building work.
Can I start building once the CDC is issued?
Before starting, confirm the principal certifier appointment, required notices, conditions and other pre-start requirements. Inspections and the relevant completion certification are still part of the process. Our NSW guide explains the usual sequence.
Is CDC available for a project in Victoria?
CDC is a NSW approval pathway. In Victoria, a building permit is a separate process from a planning permit, where one is required. See our Victorian Services page or speak with our team about your location.