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CDC Approval for Complying Developments in Sydney

Looking for a faster path to construction approval? A Complying Development Certificate (CDC) might be the answer!

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What Is a Complying Development Certificate and Why It Matters

A Complying Development Certificate (CDC) is a form of development approval that combines both planning and construction approval in one streamlined process. This approach, often referred to as combined planning, is ideal for routine, low-impact development types.

Unlike a development application (DA), which is assessed by your local council, a CDC approval is issued by a private certifier or accredited certifier, provided your project complies with all applicable state environmental planning policies and building code requirements.

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Did You Know?

At Dura Group Building and Renovations, we help homeowners, builders, and developers across Sydney secure fast-track approvals through the complying development pathway, reducing delays and helping your project start sooner.

Our team handles the entire approval process, ensuring your proposed building project meets all planning rules, building standards, and certification requirements under the NSW Government’s planning system.

When Can You Use the Complying Development Pathway?

The complying development pathway is available for a wide range of residential, commercial, and industrial development projects that meet strict criteria. This includes:

  • Secondary dwellings, granny flats, and swimming pools
  • Residential sheds, garages, and minor earthworks
  • Strata subdivision, demolition, and structural supports building
  • Internal alterations and upgrades that do not alter the external façade
  • Industrial buildings that meet relevant land zoning rules

We assess your proposed development against applicable planning controls, development standards, and restrictions that may override private covenants. If your project qualifies, we will help you access the fast track approval process.

CDC Approval vs. Development Application (DA): Key Differences

While both options provide development approval, the CDC process offers a faster and more defined pathway, provided your project is eligible.

Feature Complying Development Certificate (CDC) Development Application (DA)
Assessed by Private certifier Local council
Timeline 2-4 weeks after submission 2-6 weeks or more after submission
If your development does not fall under exempt development or complying development, a DA is required.
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How the CDC Approval Process Works

The CDC process involves several stages. Dura Group manages every step of this application process to ensure a smooth experience from concept to construction.

Step 1: Site Review and Eligibility Check

We evaluate your site, zoning, and overlays to confirm if the project qualifies for a complying development certificate. This includes checking for secondary dwelling building earthworks, vegetation protection, or nearby heritage-listed properties.

Step 2: Prepare Structural Plans and Required Documents

Our team compiles all the required paperwork, including:

  • Detailed site plans and structural plans
  • Building specifications tailored to your project
  • Fire safety design to improve fire safety
  • Reports for strata subdivision demolishing, setbacks, and height limits
  • Compliance checks with state environmental planning policies

If your project includes specific construction material or unique designs, we ensure they align with relevant development standards.

Step 3: Engage an Accredited Certifier

We work with an experienced certifying authority or private certifier to review your plans and issue the complying development certificate approval. Any required adjustments are made quickly to avoid delay.

Step 4: Construction Certificate and Building Establishing

After approval, we assist with your construction certificate, manage pre-construction compliance, and help you begin building establishing within the allowed timeframe.

TESTIMONIALS

See What Our Clients Saying!

"We worked with Dura Group for our CDC approval and home extension, and honestly, they made the whole process so easy. What started out feeling really overwhelming quickly became simple thanks to Patricia — she was so organised, clear, and genuinely supportive every step of the way. Once everything was approved, the team completed our renovation and we couldn’t be happier with the result. The whole experience was smooth, stress-free, and felt really personal. I’d definitely recommend Dura Group to anyone wanting an easy approval process and a high-quality build.'"
Jena Cheatham
"Highly recommend Dura group, such a down to earth passionate team who take on any challenge, from start to finish they have been absolutely fantastic. Mark and his team are professional, efficient and highly skilled. Daniel the main Foreman is not only a magician who can fix absolutely anything thrown at him but also has a voice of an angel. His voice wakes up any household and is such an entertaining foreman to have around. Mark is a very patient professional man who works within any budget, communicates daily to keep you in the loop, and lastly Patricia who was absolutely fantastic handling the admin side of the business, working effortlessly behind the scenes using her magic to complete all the paperwork and actioning the CDC within 4 weeks over christmas. Thank you again Dura group for our beautiful living space."
Rachel LovWoolooware

How We Help With Your Construction Certificate

A Construction Certificate can be issued either by your local council or by a private certifier.

Think of it as the green light that turns your approved design into a buildable, compliant project.

Dura Group can manage this entire process for you, ensuring all documentation is correctly prepared and submitted, and that your project meets all necessary requirements.
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Benefits of the Complying Development Approval Pathway

With over 27 years of construction and planning experience, Dura Group Building and Renovations provides complete support through the compliance and certification process.

  • Dedicated client manager throughout the approval process
  • Eligibility review for proposed development
  • Expert preparation of site plans, structural documents, and compliance reports
  • Coordination with your certifying authority
  • Advice on specific construction material, fire rating, and planning controls

From small additions to industrial developments, we know how to get your project approved and ready to build efficiently.

When Is a CDC Required?

Not every project needs a DA. In many cases, your building project may be eligible for a faster Complying Development Certificate (CDC). Dura Group Building and Renovations will assess your plans early to confirm if this streamlined approval pathway is right for your project.

DC Approval Is Typically Required For

  • Secondary dwellings like granny flats
  • Swimming pools or spas
  • Residential sheds, garages, or carports
  • Strata subdivision or demolishing a structure
  • Industrial or commercial projects that meet planning rules

We’ll confirm whether your project qualifies as exempt development, meets the criteria for a Complying Development Certificate, or needs a full Development Application (DA).

Not Sure If You Need CDC or DA?

The rules around development approvals can be complex and vary across different councils in New South Wales. Making the wrong assumption could lead to costly delays or non-compliance.

The team at Dura Group Building and Renovations can assess your plans and advise on the most suitable approval pathway, whether that’s a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) or a full Development Application (DA). Getting the right advice early can save you weeks of waiting and thousands in unnecessary costs.

Get a free initial consultation

Contact us today to discuss your project and find out whether you need a DA or may qualify for a faster CDC approval.

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Local Council Approval Across South Sydney

We support homeowners across Sydney’s southern and inner suburbs, with deep experience navigating the unique planning rules of each local council. Whether your project needs a DA or qualifies for a CDC, we tailor the approval process to suit your site, council, and development type.

Sutherland Shire Council

Extensive experience with Sutherland Shire’s planning controls, zoning overlays, and environmental considerations.

Inner West Council

Specialised knowledge in managing heritage items and urban infill development in dense residential areas.

Georges River Council

Strong track record with home renovations, additions, and new builds under Georges River’s planning policies.

Randwick City Council

Expertise in coastal building guidelines and heritage zone requirements unique to Randwick City Council.

Bayside Council

Comprehensive understanding of Bayside’s specific development rules, flood controls, and dual occupancy considerations.

Other Areas

We also work with councils across Greater Sydney. Contact us to discuss your local area and project requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Complying Development Certificate?

A Complying Development Certificate (CDC) is a development certificate that combines planning and construction approval. It is issued by a private certifier when your building project meets all the applicable codes and policies.

Most CDC approvals are completed within 2-4 weeks after submission if your documentation and plans meet the eligibility criteria.

Projects involving secondary dwellings, swimming pools, earthworks, and internal upgrades may qualify if they comply with the relevant planning and zoning requirements.

Yes. Many projects involving residential sheds, strata subdivision demolishing, and small-scale demolition works may qualify under the complying development pathway.

You will need site plans, structural plans, building specifications, and documentation confirming compliance with fire safety and environmental requirements.

Absolutely. We manage the full approval process from initial assessment through to submission, certification, and start of the construction period.

Ready to Start Your CDC Application? Let Dura Group Guide You

If you want a faster, council-free pathway to approval, let Dura Group Building and Renovations manage your complying development certificate application from start to finish.

Contact us today to begin your CDC approval process.

Contact Us Today

Need Assistance with your Home Renovation?

Our Team is Ready to Assist! Just Fill in the Form Below

Dura Group: family-owned Sydney builders specialising in renovations and home additions, with 27+ years of trusted experience.

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Dura Group: family-owned Sydney builders specialising in renovations and home additions, with 27+ years of trusted experience.​

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