What is Complying Development (CDC) and Can You Use It?
15 October 2024
Complying Development, or CDC, is a fast-tracked approval pathway for straightforward residential, commercial, and industrial projects. If your project meets all the standards in a State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) or Local Environmental Plan (LEP), you can get approval from a council or an accredited certifier without needing a full Development Application (DA).
What Kind of Projects are Eligible?
CDC covers a wide range of common projects, including:
- New single or two-storey homes
- Renovations or additions to existing homes
- Granny flats (secondary dwellings)
- Swimming pools, decks, and carports
- Some commercial fit-outs and changes of use
How to Check if You're Eligible
Eligibility depends on your property's zoning and whether it's affected by certain constraints like bushfire risk, flood risk, or heritage listings. Your Section 10.7 Planning Certificate is the best place to start, as it will state whether CDC is permitted on your land. Tools like SiteReview.ai can help you interpret this document quickly.
While CDC is faster, the rules are very strict. If your project doesn't meet every single requirement, you will need to lodge a DA instead.
Disclaimers
Environmental Disclaimer
The information provided in this article relates to environmental constraints that may affect land use or development. It is general in nature and does not replace detailed site-specific assessments. Always consult with an environmental consultant or local council for up-to-date, location-specific guidance.
Legal Disclaimer
This content is intended to provide a general overview of the relevant legislation and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Property and planning laws are subject to change and may vary depending on specific site conditions and council policies. For advice tailored to your circumstances, please consult a qualified legal or planning professional.
General Disclaimer
This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, planning, or environmental advice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the information may not reflect the most recent changes in law or policy. You should seek advice from a qualified professional or relevant authority before making any property-related decisions.