Why Are Council Approvals Important for Home Design?
In Sydney, council approvals are a legal requirement to ensure that construction projects, including new builds, additions and renovations meet local regulations, zoning laws and Australian building standards and codes. These requirements can be complex and challenging to navigate, so let’s break them down and cover all the essential points.
First and foremost carrying out building works without the necessary approvals or straying from the pre-approved plans during construction can result in serious consequences, including substantial fines, increased liability, and even demolition of the completed works.
Understanding the Different Types of Approvals in Sydney
What is Development Application (DA) Approvals?
Development applications are a formal request submitted to your local council in Sydney NSW requesting permission to carry out building works or modifications of any kind.
When is DA approval required?
DA approval is required for most building and construction works, this includes new builds, extensions and demolitions.
The DA approval process and timeframes
Submitting a Development Application (DA) is a critical step in determining whether your proposed works will be approved, refused, or deferred. In NSW all DAs must be lodged via the NSW planning portal and must include key documentation such as a detailed description of the development, estimated project costs, homeowner consent, a site survey and analysis, the council’s completed DA form and checklist, and any relevant construction plans and supporting documents.
The pre-lodgment process can be complex and plays a significant role in the final outcome of your application. It can often feel overwhelming, but that’s where our team comes in. We’ll work closely with you to prepare and cost your plans, understand your site and vision, and handle all the necessary requirements on your behalf, making the entire process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
All Development Applications must undergo a formal assessment by the local council. This process includes a site inspection and the evaluation of the below considerations:
Relevant Plans and Policies – All local and state planning policies that apply to the proposed development.
Environmental and Community Impacts – How the proposal works will affect both the natural and built environment as well as its social and economic implications if any for the local area.
Site Suitability – Whether the site is appropriate and suitable for the proposed works.
Public Submissions – Feedback or objections submitted by neighbours or community groups
Public Interest – The broader interest of the local community
This thorough assessment ensures that all aspects of the proposal are carefully considered before a final decision is made. Once these key matters have been taken into account the council then makes a determination. there are three possible outcomes that will be provided within 40-60 days of submission.
Development consent – granted, with conditions
DA refusal – with reasons
Deferred commencement consent – a consent not operating until one or more important matters are resolved. This is not a common outcome.
Depending on the outcome of the DA assessment, if your application is approved the next step is to obtain a Construction Certificate (CC). This certifies that your plans comply with the Building Code of Australia and are consistent with the approved DA. You’ll also need to appoint a Principal Certifying Authority (PCA) either a private certifier or the local council who will oversee the construction to ensure it aligns with approved plans.
Lastly before any construction begins, both the council and the appointed PCA must be given at least two days’ notice to formally acknowledge the start of works.
What is Complying Development Certificate (CDC)?
A complying development certificate is a construction approval process for straightforward developments that can be fast tracked by an assessment by council or an accredited certifier.
How is CDC different from DA?
The Development Application (DA) process is typically more complex and time consuming, involving a thorough assessment by the local council and in some cases input from the community. Because the council must review multiple stages approval can take longer. On average, the entire DA process from submission to approval can take around three months.
A Complying Development Certificate (CDC) provides a faster and more streamlined alternative, It can be issued either by your local council or a private certifier typically within 2 to 3 weeks. CDCs are assessed against a set of predetermined, statewide criteria that apply uniformly across New South Wales, making the process more straightforward for eligible developments.
Exempt Development: Do You Need Approval at All?
Exempt development refers to minor, low impact building works that do not require approval from council or a private certifier provided they meet specific standards outlined in the State Environmental Planning Policy. Examples of developments that can be undertaken without the need for approval, include construction of decks, garden sheds, fences, exterior painting of a house and carports.
A Complying Development Certificate (CDC) provides a faster and more streamlined alternative, It can be issued either by your local council or a private certifier typically within 2 to 3 weeks. CDCs are assessed against a set of predetermined, statewide criteria that apply uniformly across New South Wales, making the process more straightforward for eligible developments.
Engaging a Builder, Draftsman Or Architect Early
At Gardner Design & Drafting, we’ve successfully managed numerous DA and CDC applications on behalf of our clients, helping them launch their projects with confidence and ease. Partnering with our experienced team, you’ll benefit from a streamlined process and guidance throughout the process, whilst providing you with a sense of security and confidence in every decision you make. Contact us today to have a chat about your dream design.
