DA vs CDC: Which Approval Path is Right for Your Renovation?
Everything You Need to Know to Save Time, Money, and Stress
Before you can build, extend, or renovate in NSW, you’ll need official approval. But which pathway is right for your project: a Development Application (DA) or a Complying Development Certificate (CDC)?
At ROKA, we guide every client through this crucial step. Choosing the right path early can save months in delays — and thousands in design revisions or council requests.
Photo by Roka: Australian home renovation render with landscape
What is a DA (Development Application)?
A DA is a formal request submitted to your local council, required when your site or design falls outside the strict rules for fast-track approval. DAs allow more design flexibility and are best for:
Heritage-listed or conservation zones
Bushfire- or flood-affected land
Properties with significant trees
Non-compliant boundary setbacks or heights
Unique or custom design requests
Pros:
✔ Greater design freedom
✔ Council consultation allowed
✔ Approval valid for several years
Cons:
✖ Longer approval time (6–12+ weeks)
✖ Council may require changes or conditions
What is a CDC (Complying Development Certificate)?
A CDC is a faster approval pathway handled by a private certifier (not the council). It’s only available if your proposal meets every requirement in the State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP).
It’s ideal for:
Simple extensions and additions
New homes on standard lots
Projects that meet setbacks, heights, and design rules
Pros:
✔ Quick turnaround (as little as 2 weeks)
✔ No council involvement
✔ Less red tape
Cons:
✖ Very strict compliance needed
✖ Limited flexibility
Sketch by Roka: Concept hand sketch internal kitchen and dining for CDC project
How We Help You Choose the Right Path
At ROKA, we always begin with a site and planning review. We’ll check your lot’s zoning, overlays, bushfire risks, tree protections, and more. This allows us to:
Identify if a CDC is possible
Recommend a DA if flexibility is needed
Sometimes split your project into DA + CDC combo for faster delivery
Client Story: Two-Path Approval
One of our clients in Adamstown Heights wanted to add a living area and rear pergola. The site had protected trees too close to the structure — so we submitted a DA for the extension, and later used CDC for internal alterations. This saved weeks of approval delays and helped the build stay on schedule.
Photo by Roka: Rear extension for a DA residential project
ROKA Pro Tips
1. Get Advice Early
Ask your designer or certifier to check eligibility before designing.
💡 All ROKA concept design packages include a DA/CDC suitability review.
2. Don’t Assume CDC Will Be Faster
If your site is on a slope, flood zone, or near trees - CDC may not be possible.
💡 We’ll give you honest advice early so you don’t waste time.
3. Staged Approach May Be Best
Some clients do Stage 1 via DA and Stage 2 with a CDC later - especially when adding a pool or studio.
Sketch by Roka: Hand sketch of a staged proposal with pool
Conclusion
Navigating approvals is one of the most overlooked (and costly) parts of a project - but it doesn’t need to be. At ROKA, we design your project and your pathway to approval from day one.
Whether you need fast CDC approval or more freedom through a DA, we’ll guide you clearly, calmly, and creatively through every step.
