Complying Development Certificate vs Development Application Approvals

As the government aims to provide easier and faster approval methods for renovations and new constructions, there are two main methods for getting approval for a residential project. In short, Development Application approval must follow Council’s planning rules, whilst Complying Development Certificate must follow the state’s planning rules.

Our team is committed to creating functional and aesthetically pleasing solutions, ensuring that your home not only meets your current requirements but also evolves with you into the future. Whether you envision additional bedrooms, a dedicated home office, or versatile living spaces, we are here to bring your aspirations to life with thoughtful and innovative design.

DA vs. CDC

There are several things to consider when deciding whether to carry out approval using DA or CDC:

·      CDC is a one step process, whereas DA approval is a two step process, as you have to apply for CC (Construction Certificate) after the DA is approved. Under CDC, construction can begin almost immedeitaly after approval.

·       CDC is generally a faster assessment process, as the certifier usually takes about 4-6 weeks to provide approval. Council, on the other hand, can take between 3-8 months to issue approval.

·      Under CDC approval, the design guidelines must be strictly adhered to, otherwise the design cannot be approved. Under DA approval, if there are small non-compliances with the regulations, council may still approve the design.

  • With DA approval, neighbours are notified at the start of the assessment, and can submit their objections to council. Under CDC approval, neighbours are notified of the design, but for information purposes only.

  • While most clients prefer CDC approval, unfortunately, not all projects are eligible, as the site must meet certain criteria first.

Is my site eligible for Complying Development Certificate?

A certifier, town planner, or architect is required in order to ascertain whether the site is eligible for CDC approval, and whether the proposed brief will meet CDC design regulations.

We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners looking to renovate. With an entourage of consultants, planners and expert architect advice at your disposal, your most valuable asset is in good hands.

With over a decade of experience, Urban Den Architects is well-versed in understanding the challenges you may encounter and adept at providing effective solutions. Our designs are tailored to your home's specific size, unique challenges, and individual needs, setting us apart as architects dedicated to delivering unmatched expertise and personalized solutions.

 

Complying Development Certificate Approval Projects

Adam and Vanessa were looking to carry out a first floor addition to their home to transform it into a Hamptons style abode.

They were not keen on lodging a Development Application with Council, because they did not want to wait several months for Council approval.

Upon reviewing the regulations, their site was eligible for Complying Development, which allowed them to obtain approval, get started, and finish the project quickly.

 

As a developer who had recently purchased the site, David was keen to obtain approval his dual occupancy as quickly as possible.

Regulations under Complying Development allowed David to get more out of his design, allowing him to get five bedrooms out of each dwelling.

The streamlined nature of the Complying Development Certificate (CDC) approval process provided David with a clear timeline for commencing construction. This enabled him to secure a builder for the project without being placed in a queue.

We’ve helped countless homeowners and investors obtain clarity to find out whether their site is eligible for Complying Development Certificate.

 

Pros & Cons of Complying Development Approval

 

Faster Assessment & Approval

A private certifier is able to quickly assess and approve the design.

100% Design Compliance

Under CDC approval, non-compliance with design regulations is not permitted.

One Step Process

CDC approval is a one-step process that helps you avoid going to Council and waiting months for approval.

Eligibility

Not all sites are eligible for CDC, as some criteria for eligibility will apply.

Neighbour Notification

Whilst neighbours are notified, unlike the DA process they cannot make objections to the design.

Design Regulations

Depending on the design brief, CDC and DA need to be weighed in order to choose the best method of approval.

 
 

Discover your best next steps for designing the house you’ve always wanted.

-Discuss your brief and gain full clarity about design guidelines that apply to your property

-Connect with an architect who has experience designing home additions under various councils

-Walk away with a roadmap to re-design your home to reflect your lifestyle

 

FAQ

  • From the design brief to the type of approval, there is a lot that needs to be considered when designing a renovation. With the help of an architect by your side, you’ll have the right advice, knowledge and guidance for a design that meets your brief and uses the right method of approval.

  • Depending on the design, and the site itself, there are pros and cons of going down either path of approval.

    At Urban Den Architects, we start off by reviewing the site and the best method of approval, keeping the brief in mind.

  • Some aspects to consider before hiring an architect are:

    -your budget (even if it is approximate)

    -your timeline

    -whether you plan on living in the house during the renovation.