Go Design Solutions Drafting Services in Sydney explains the difference of DA CC and CDC

One of the major concerns that a lot of our clients get confused with are these three terminlogy - DA, CC and CDC and how are they different? Which one to implement? What are the pros and cons?

DA - Development Application

A Development Application is an application for Council to consider your proposal for development (or what we called the 'BIG IDEA'). With DA, a completed application formand accompanying documentation are required to be considered if the proposal meets the legislative and Council requirements. 

CC - Construction Certificate

A Construction Certificate is issued to verify that the proposed works comply with the appropriate Australian Standards, Council’s Policies and the Building Code of Australia (BCA) after a DA approval (or what we called, 'a manual that put the puzzles together'). 

Your residential design team will assist you in applying a CC once after your DA is approved and that you are ready for construction.

Do I need both DA and CC?

Yes, you do need to submit a Development Application to Council if you wish to build. Following that, you will also require a Construction Certificate before you can 'start'' costruction. Both process needs to be done and seen as "one big package" before any constructions.

CDC - Complying Development Certificate

Complying development is a fast track approval system for low impact forms of development that meet predetermined criteria. It is routine development that may be carried out with consent provided it strictly meets all specific criteria. That means, all criteria must be met and that no space for negotiation is allowed. Either 'do it', or 'leave it.'

Since the specific criteria is much stricter than local council's control plans, CDC wins by a 'fast track 10 days approval'. However, it is extremely important that your designer (or the appliant) must vertify that the proposal must meet all the criteria set in SEPP (State Environmental Planning Policy) and could be done as a 'CDC'. If it is not complying development it may still be permissible via the normal Development and Construction Certificate Application process.

What is a PCA and can I use them for DA/CC/CDC application?

A PCA is known as Principal Certifying Authority. The PCA can be either Council or an Accredited Certifier. The PCA can only issue a Construction Certificate or CDC, but not for DAs.

The PCA also complete all critical stage inspections to ensure that the work is carried out in accordance with the approved development plans and issue an Occupation Certificate.

CDC vs DA/CC - which one should I use?

Generally most projects can be done by a CDC as long as it meets the predetermined requirements under the SEPP. If an applicant chooses to work beyond the development standards
contained in the Codes SEPP, they will need to lodge a DA with the relevant local council in accordance with the merit-based rules, for consideration.

You will most likely need Development Application (DA) if:

• Property is within zone E4 - Environmental Living
• Development don't comply with SEPP (State Environmental Planning Policy)
• Property that is heritage listed/ conservation area
• Change of use for the building
• High rise, multi storey buildings