DA vs CDC?

When you are looking to build a new home or make major additions to your existing, you are presented with two options for getting your build approved – Development Application (DA) or Complying Development Certificate (CDC).

• The council you are building in
• The home you are building or the addition you are making
• The time frame you have to build

What is a Development Application?

DA is an application submitted to your local council, with information such as: what development will look like when completed, the materials to be used, and any impact that the development may have on the surrounding area. Specific requirements you need to supply when submitting a DA will vary depending on the local council your block resides.

What is a Complying Development Certificate?

CDC has been in place in NSW since 1998. The rules for getting an application approved through CDC are the same throughout NSW, regardless of the local council you block resides in. This was put in place so that low impact developments can bypass local councils when getting development, saving both time and money.

Difference between DA and CDC

Apart from getting approval through DA or CDC, you will also need to check that your new home complies with the guidelines of the estate that you are building in. New estates often have specific guidelines to ensure that the streetscape of the estate remains consistent. Some examples of restrictions include:

• External colours
• Types of materials used on the facade of the home
• Types of plants allowed in the gardens

Estate guidelines will be made available to you when you purchase the new block of land. Your builder should also be able to help ensure that your new home meets all those requirements before the build commences.

If you have any questions or concerns about complying with development or estate guidelines, don’t hesitate.