Complying Development Certificates (CDC)
A Complying Development Certificate (CDC) is a fast-tracked NSW approval path combining planning and construction consent into a single certificate issued by an accredited private certifier instead of council. A CDC applies for projects that meet standard NSW State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) criteria and must be obtained before any construction or groundworks begin on site.
Private Certification
Best for new homes, secondary dwellings, renovations, and outdoor structures that comply with standard NSW code requirements.
Fast Turnaround
Determined in as little as 5 to 20 days once documents are lodged.
Accredited Private Certifier
Assessed directly by CertifiBuild without waiting on local council queues.
Combined Single Approval
Planning permission and Construction Certificate (CC) issued together in one document.
Statewide SEPP Standards
Applies to projects strictly satisfying State Environmental Planning Policy criteria.
Development Application
Required when project designs exceed state limits, seek planning variations, or sit on heritage/environmentally sensitive land.
Extended Timeline
Typically takes 3 to 6+ months depending on council assessment backlogs.
Local Council Planning Department
Assessed by town planners, panel committees, and council officers.
Two-Stage Approval Process
Requires separate Development Application (DA) consent followed by a Construction Certificate (CC).
Site-Specific Variances
Required when building designs exceed standard SEPP controls or require planning merit review.
Unsure if your project qualifies for a CDC? Send us your architectural plans for an obligation-free preliminary check.
How your CDC approval works
Four clear steps from initial plan checks through to on-site commencement across New South Wales.
Ready to verify your building plans?
Send us your architectural drawings for a preliminary CDC eligibility review within 24 hours.
Get your CDC approved in days, not months
Skip long council queues with certified NSW private certifiers. We assess your plans under NSW statutory planning codes so your build starts without delay.
Class 1 residential dwellings, duplexes, granny flats, and Class 10 outdoor structures across New South Wales.