What is the difference between a Development Application (DA) and a Complying Development Certificate (CDC)?

These terms are used in NSW. A Development Application is lodged with council and assessed on its merits. A Complying Development Certificate is a combined planning and construction approval that can be issued by council or a private certifier without a full development application, but only if the proposal meets set standards. NSW councils describe a CDC as not being a merit based assessment. Complying development cannot be used on all land. Other states have their own fast track or exempt pathways under different names, so users outside NSW should check their state planning authority.

Check yourself: NSW Planning Portal and your council or certifier.

General information only. It is not legal advice and may not apply to your project. Rules differ by state and change over time, so confirm with your regulator, certifier or a lawyer before acting.