Construction Certificate (CC)
Approval to start building, confirming detailed construction plans meet the Building Code and regulations.
A Construction Certificate (CC) is the approval you need before putting a shovel in the ground or a hammer to timber - even after you have DA approval. While DA approval says "yes, you can build this design here," the CC confirms that your detailed construction plans, engineering, materials, and methods meet the National Construction Code (NCC) and all technical requirements. Think of DA as the planning permission and CC as the building permission. The CC is issued by council or a private certifier after they've reviewed structural engineering, drainage plans, energy efficiency calculations, fire safety measures, and construction details. You must appoint a Principal Certifier (council or private) who'll conduct inspections during construction and issue the final Occupation Certificate. Can't legally start building without a CC - doing so risks stop-work orders and fines.
What does it mean for my project?
A Construction Certificate (CC) is the approval of your detailed construction plans and specifications, confirming that what you intend to build is consistent with your Development Approval (DA) and complies with the Building Code of Australia and relevant standards. It is usually issued by a private certifier or council after they review structural drawings, engineering details, specifications and any required conditions from the DA. You cannot legally start building work that requires a CC until it has been issued. The CC stage often flushes out design issues that weren't fully resolved in the DA.
What do I need to think about?
You must obtain a CC (or CDC which combines DA+CC) before starting most building work. Budget time and fees for engineering and documentation needed for the CC. Any changes between DA and CC may trigger the need for a DA modification. Builder will rely on CC drawings and documentation as the main "instructionsfor construction. Delays in getting engineering or clarifying DA conditions can push out CC issue date
Examples where it might impact a project
We had DA approval but had to wait another month for the CC before the builders could start.
State specific stuff...
No state specific requirements - used across Australia (check your local council for any local variations).