NSW PLANNING & APPROVALS GUIDE
Do I need a DA or CDC?
Navigating Sydney council planning approvals can seem overwhelming. Use our interactive feasibility checker to find out whether your renovation qualifies for fast-track 20-day CDC approval or requires a formal Council DA.
THE TWO APPROVAL PATHWAYS
Understanding the NSW Planning Portal
Every Sydney council operates under the NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Act. Here is how CDC and DA compare.
FAST TRACK
Complying Development (CDC)
Fast-tracked approval issued by an Accredited Private Certifier under State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP).
- Turnaround: 20–30 business days.
- Approval Body: Private Certifier (no council committee meetings).
- Neighbour Involvement: 14-day statutory notice only; cannot formally object if standards are met.
- Best for: Standard home additions, internal renovations, and compliant extensions.
CUSTOM MERIT
Council Development Application (DA)
Formal assessment by your local council planners against the Local Environmental Plan (LEP) and Development Control Plan (DCP).
- Turnaround: 60–120+ days depending on council backlog.
- Approval Body: Local Council Assessment Team / Planning Panel.
- Neighbour Involvement: Public exhibition period with formal public submissions.
- Best for: Heritage items, non-compliant setbacks, large second storeys, or steep sites.