Before you start any building work or change how you use a property, you must get the right approval. You do not need this if the work is Exempt Development.
You get approval through either:
What is a Complying Development Certificate?
A Complying Development Certificate (CDC) is a fast-track approval process. It applies to certain developments that meet specific planning and building standards. A CDC combines:
If your proposal meets all the required standards, a Council or Private Certifier can issue a CDC. This will be based on your submitted plans, specifications, and supporting documents.
How we can help
Council has a professional team of accredited building certifiers who can assist with:
For general enquiries, contact our Customer Service Centre on (02) 9330 6400.
Types of development that may qualify
Full details on buildings or uses approved as Complying Development are in the State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008.
Examples of development that may qualify for a CDC include:
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Internal or external alterations and/or additions to dwelling houses.
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Carports, garages and car spaces.
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Shade structures, conservatories, awnings and pergolas.
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New dwelling houses.
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Multi-dwelling housing - dual occupancies, terrace houses and manor houses.
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Fences and retaining walls.
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Swimming pools and spas.
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Internal alterations to commercial and industrial buildings.
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Shop or office fit-outs, shop-fronts and awnings.
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Certain types of land and strata subdivision.
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Changes of certain commercial and industrial uses.
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Demolition of certain buildings.
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Temporary structures and marquees.
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Fire safety upgrading work.
Notification of neighbours
In some cases, residents of the adjoining or nearby properties are required to be notified of the commencement of a proposed complying development for a dwelling.
This notification is to encourage consultation between neighbours’ and resolution of any concerns that may be raised. However, the provisions do not require the owner or Certifier to consider or address any submissions or, to modify the proposal if the relevant requirements are met.
Development Contributions
Section 7.11 or 7.12 Development Contributions under the Georges River Local Infrastructure Contributions Plan 2021 may apply.
Section 7.21 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 says that an accredited Certifier must add a condition for payments. This condition requires payments for Section 7.11 or 7.12 contributions based on the Contributions Plans. If you need contributions, you can use a template condition.
For applications lodged after 1 October 2023, a Housing and Productivity contribution may apply. A draft ministerial order has been released. It provides more details about the housing and productivity contribution. Further information can be found on the Department of Planning and Environment website.
The CDC requires a sign to be placed in a visible spot on the site. This sign must show the phone number and contact details of the builder and certifier.
Complaints about building work
If you have concerns or complaints about a development site, send them to the certifier. The certifier is in charge of that project.
This applies from the date the CDC is issued until the Occupation Certificate is issued.
If your complaint has not been resolved, contact Building Commission NSW. They are the regulatory authority for private certifiers.
Related information
Before You Apply
Check your CDC application. Make sure it meets the planning and building requirements before you submit it. Ensure that all required documentation is included with your application.
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