Complying Development Certificate (CDC) Sydney
Fast-track building approval in 10–20 days for qualifying projects via private certifier. 95%+ approval rate, BDAA-accredited team.
In brief: CDC is the fast-track building approval pathway in NSW: 10–20 days vs. 30–90 days for DA. If your project meets ALL NSW Housing Code requirements, it must be approved. No discretionary assessment — purely compliance check.
CDC vs DA — Timeline Comparison
| Factor | CDC (Fast Track) | DA (Council) |
|---|---|---|
| Timeline | 10–20 days | 30–90 days |
| Cost (council fees) | $1,500 – $4,000 | $2,000 – $15,000+ |
| Assessment authority | Private certifier or council | Local council |
| Public notification | Not required | Usually required |
| Assessment type | Compliance check (no discretion) | Discretionary merit assessment |
What Qualifies for a CDC in NSW?
CDC applies to projects that fully comply with the NSW State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) Housing Code:
- New single-storey and two-storey homes (Class 1a)
- Granny flats and secondary dwellings (max 60m² internal)
- Duplexes and dual occupancies (subject to zoning and lot size)
- Alterations and additions to existing homes
- Swimming pools and garden sheds (Class 10b)
If your project exceeds ANY Housing Code requirement, it reverts to the DA process. giantA assesses your project for free to confirm which pathway is right.
CDC Cost — Sydney 2026
| Component | Typical Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Private certifier CDC fee | $1,500 – $4,000 |
| Planning Portal lodgement | $47 (fixed) |
| Architectural plans | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| BASIX certificate | $300 – $600 |
| Structural engineering | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Total design + certification | $6,000 – $16,000 |
Compare to total DA cost ($10,000–$35,000+) — CDC is typically 30–50% cheaper for qualifying projects.
Frequently Asked Questions About CDC
Can a private certifier reject a CDC application?
Yes. If your project doesn't fully comply with the Housing Code requirements (setbacks, height, FSR, landscaping), a private certifier cannot approve the CDC. You must redesign to comply or revert to DA. giantA's feasibility check before you engage a certifier catches non-compliance issues early.
How long does CDC approval take?
Private certifier assessment: 10–20 business days from complete documentation. With incomplete documentation or requests for additional information: 20–30 days. Total timeline design to CDC: 4–8 weeks vs. 8–22 weeks for DA.
What's the difference between CDC and Construction Certificate (CC)?
CDC = planning approval (your project may be built). CC = technical building approval (your plans comply with National Construction Code). Both are required. Some certifiers can issue both in one package. giantA prepares the full set of documents for both.
What documents are required for a CDC application?
Site plan, floor plans, elevations, sections, BASIX certificate, structural engineering plans, landscape plan, stormwater management plan, and statement of environmental effects. Some projects may need additional reports (geotechnical, bushfire, flood).
What happens after CDC is approved?
After CDC approval: (1) obtain a Construction Certificate from a certifier or architect, (2) schedule mandatory inspections at critical stages (footings, frame, waterproofing, final), and (3) receive the Occupation Certificate upon completion.
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