Complying Development Certificate (CDC)

A CDC is a NSW Government initiative that was introduced to remove the complexity and red tape from home/apartment construction and renovation/improvements. This certificate is an alternative to lodging a development application (DA).

The CDC also fast tracks and combines planning and construction approval for developments that meet pre-determined development guidelines. These are assessed by a Private Certifier and electronically lodged via the NSW Planning Portal.

These laws apply to Class 2 Buildings which include:

Multi residential apartments

Single storey attached dwelling with common space underneath

A dwelling with a granny flat attached (common wall)

Mixed use buildings with a Class 2 parts such as:

Apartment building with shops on the first floor

Apartment building with offices occupying some floors

Apartment building with a carpark

(What is a Complying Development Certificate (CDC)?)

This is a combined approval for both planning and construction development plans. A CDC can be obtained only when the development complies with all relevant legislation and building standards.

A streamlined approval pathway, the CDC process operates independently of local council regulations. When you commission Class 2 Architects, we can obtain the CDC without local council approval and your renovations can begin without delay.

(Choose Class 2 Architects for speed and accuracy.)

When it comes to securing a CDC, you can rely on our specialist team for a seamless and efficient application journey. Our focus is on providing you with an accurate, comprehensive service every time.

Comprehensive documentation

Our team will help you prepare all the documentation for your CDC application. We’ll provide accurate and complete architectural drawings and design compliance declarations that meet the standards required of a Design Practitioner in NSW.

Quick turnaround

We understand that time is of the essence in renovation projects. Our streamlined approach and attention to detail allow us to deliver fast turnaround times for your CDC application. We prioritise efficiency without compromising on quality.

Registered and Insured

Our team are fully registered Design Practitioners under the Design and Building Practitioners Act 2020 (Act) and we ensure that all our design work carried out is indemnified under professional indemnity Insurance.

Quality referrals

We’ve worked with a range of highly experienced and qualified Private Certifiers, Class 2 Engineers and Class 2 Builders. That’s why we’ll always recommend the best partners to help with both your CDC application requirements and renovation process itself.

(What do you need before CDC?)

Before you submit your application for a CDC to a certifier, you’ll need a Section 10.7 Certificate and Owner's/Strata's consent.

Your local council in NSW can issue planning certificates, which are legal documents that outline the planning information for your property. We strongly recommend that you obtain a 10.7 certificate prior to applying for the CDC. This will streamline the initial steps in preparing your complying development application. A planning certificate will answer many questions up front and save time in preparing your CDC application.

For more details on the CDC process visit the NSW Department of Planning and Environment website.

(How to speed up the CDC process)

If you’re an apartment owner in NSW planning a renovation, you can fast-track approvals with a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) which bypasses the lengthy Development Application process (typically applicable to major changes).

This approval also requires Local Council to assess the plans against Local Environmental Policy (LEP) and the Development Control Plan (DCP). Construction documentation is then assessed before a Construction Certificate can be issued.

With Class 2 Architects, you’ll have access to a team of experienced architects who are committed to delivering excellence. Our meticulous attention to detail and extensive knowledge of local council regulations set us apart.