Complying Development Certificate (CDC)
Fast-track building approval for straightforward projects that meet all preset criteria - no negotiation possible.
A Complying Development Certificate (CDC) is the express lane of development approvals - a single certificate that combines both development approval AND construction approval in one go. Much faster than full DA (often 20 days instead of months), and cheaper (lower fees, less documentation). BUT the trade-off is zero flexibility - your project must tick EVERY box in the complying development code perfectly. Even 1cm over a setback or 0.1 sqm over size limit means you can't use CDC and need full DA instead. CDC is issued by council or private certifiers (using a private certifier is usually faster). Common CDC projects: garages, carports, pergolas, decks, pools, sheds, granny flats, single-storey house alterations. It's perfect for cookie-cutter projects but useless for anything remotely creative or site-specific.
What does it mean for my project?
CDC can significantly reduce approval timeframes (often 2.4 weeks vs months for a DA). Worth checking early if your project might qualify . especially for granny flats and simple additions. Design must be tailored to meet every standard exactly . there is no "close enough". If CDC isn't possible, you'll need to pursue a DA
What do I need to think about?
Heritage-listed properties and some conservation areas are excluded from CDC. Bushfire, flood and other hazards can complicate or rule out CDC. Neighbour notification is still required for some CDCs, and neighbours can complain even if they can't stop it. Using an experienced designer familiar with CDC rules can save redesign time
Examples where it might impact a project
We got a CDC for our pergola because it met all the size and setback requirements, took 6 weeks instead of 4 months.
State specific stuff...
No state specific requirements - used across Australia (check your local council for any local variations).