Granny Flat Approvals in Sydney: CDC and DA Basics
Learn the difference between common approval paths and why current advice must be prepared for the individual property.
Sydney Custom Builders
9 min read
Key Takeaways
- A CDC is available only when the property and proposed work meet all relevant requirements.
- A DA may be needed when complying development is unavailable or unsuitable.
- Use current advice from the relevant council, certifier or planning professional before choosing a path.
A granny flat is a secondary dwelling on the same property as the main home. In NSW, it may be approved through a complying development certificate (CDC) or a development application (DA), depending on the land and the proposed design.
The right path is not chosen by the builder. It should be confirmed for the address by the relevant council, certifier or planning professional.
What is a secondary dwelling?
NSW Planning describes a secondary dwelling as a self-contained home located within, attached to or separate from the main dwelling on the same site.
The current rules sit within the Housing SEPP and other planning controls. Read the NSW Planning information about secondary dwellings before relying on a general example.
What is a CDC?
A complying development certificate can be issued when the land and proposed work meet every relevant requirement. It is a rules-based path, which means one missed condition can make the proposal ineligible.
Eligibility can be affected by the site, zone, lot, existing buildings, access, setbacks, bushfire or flood conditions and the design itself. A certifier can assess the current requirements for the property.
What is a DA?
A development application is assessed by the relevant council. It may be needed when complying development is unavailable or when the proposal needs to be considered against local planning controls.
A DA does not mean that a design will automatically be approved. The drawings and supporting information need to address the requirements identified for the property.
Questions to ask before choosing a path
- Is a secondary dwelling permitted on this land?
- Does the proposal meet all current CDC requirements?
- Are bushfire, flood, heritage or other land conditions relevant?
- How will the dwelling connect to water, sewer, power and drainage?
- Is there suitable construction and everyday access?
- How will privacy and outdoor space work for both homes?
- What drawings, reports and certificates are required?
Information a builder needs
Once the planning path and design are settled, useful building information includes:
- the property address and survey
- approved drawings and conditions
- engineering and service details
- information about access and occupied areas
- fixtures, finishes and appliances
- any landscaping or external work included in the project
Give the same current documents to every builder asked to quote.
Think beyond the building footprint
The granny flat changes how the whole property works. Consider paths, parking, bins, clothes drying, outdoor space, privacy and the route to services. These everyday details can affect both the design and construction.
Read about our granny flat and secondary dwelling service, or request a free consultation to discuss the property and documents you already have.
Sydney Custom Builders
Licensed Sydney Builder
Sydney Custom Builders carries out new builds, renovations, extensions and other building work across Sydney. These guides are written to help customers ask better questions and understand what information may be needed before construction is priced.
