Council Approvals Made Simple: A Beginner’s Guide for First-Time Developers
If you’re renovating, subdividing, or taking on your first small development, one of the biggest hurdles is understanding council approvals. Terms like DA, CDC, and BA can feel overwhelming, and not knowing the difference may cost you both time and money. This guide breaks down the essentials so you can move forward with confidence.
Development Application (DA)
A DA is formal approval from your local council for a proposed development. It’s required when your project doesn’t meet standard planning controls or falls outside “complying” categories. Subdivisions, multi-dwelling projects, or builds in sensitive zones often need a DA. The process involves submitting detailed plans, engineering reports, and assessments, which are then reviewed by council.
Complying Development Certificate (CDC)
A CDC is a faster approval pathway for straightforward projects that meet specific planning and building standards. In many cases, it can be issued by a private certifier rather than going through full council assessment. For small developers and renovators, a CDC can be a quicker way to get shovels in the ground provided your project ticks all the boxes.
Building Approval (BA) or Building Permit
A BA (sometimes called a building permit) is required to ensure your project meets the National Construction Code and safety standards. This approval focuses on the technical side structural integrity, fire safety, and energy efficiency. Whether you’re building new, extending, or renovating, a BA is almost always necessary.
Why Approvals Matter
Skipping or misunderstanding approvals can lead to costly delays, fines, or even having to redo work. More importantly, approvals protect you, your future buyers, and the community by ensuring developments are safe, compliant, and fit for purpose.
Navigating the Process with Confidence
The best approach is to engage professionals early. Engineers, town planners, and certifiers can help determine which approvals you need and prepare the necessary reports. Having the right experts on board not only saves time but also reduces stress by keeping your project on track.
The Takeaway
Approvals don’t need to be confusing. By understanding the difference between DA, CDC, and BA and getting the right advice early you can take the guesswork out of the process and set your project up for success.
