What’s the Difference?

When planning a renovation or extension in Lake Macquarie or Newcastle, your project will usually follow one of two approval pathways: a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) or a Development Application (DA). The right pathway depends on the size, location and complexity of your project.

Complying Development Certificate (CDC)

A Faster Approval Pathway

A CDC is a streamlined approval process for projects that meet strict NSW planning and zoning rules.
It is assessed by a private certifier rather than council.

Suitable for:

• Straightforward home extensions

• Some single-storey additions

• Internal structural changes (in certain cases)

• Renovations that stay within set height, setback and site coverage limits

Key Benefits:

• Faster approval (often 2–4 weeks)

• One combined approval for planning and construction

• More predictable timeframes

Key Limitations:

A CDC cannot be used if:

• Your design exceeds size or height controls

• The extension is too close to boundaries

• The home is heritage-listed or in a heritage conservation area

• The site has environmental constraints (flood, bushfire, coastal, etc.)

• The project involves complex structural changes beyond CDC rules

In these cases, a DA is required.

Development Application (DA)

Council-Assessed Approval

A DA is lodged with Lake Macquarie City Council or Newcastle City Council and is required for more complex projects or those that fall outside CDC planning controls.

Suitable for:

• Second-storey additions

• Large or architecturally complex extensions

• Major structural reconfigurations

• Homes in heritage areas

• Projects with boundary variations or site constraints

What to Expect:

• Council assessment of design, planning controls and neighbourhood impact

• Possible requests for additional information

• Longer approval timeframe (typically 6–12+ weeks)

After a DA is approved, you will also need a Construction Certificate (CC) before building can begin.

How This Affects Your Renovation

CDC = Faster start on site
Best for compliant, straightforward extensions and renovations.

DA = More design flexibility
Required for larger, more complex or constrained projects.

Both pathways lead to the same construction standards, the difference is in the approval process and timeframe.

Local Experience Matters

Lake Macquarie and Newcastle councils each have specific zoning, heritage and environmental overlays that affect whether a CDC is possible.

At Tallow Building, we work with experienced designers and certifiers to:

• Assess your site and planning controls early

• Recommend the right approval pathway

• Manage the documentation and process

This ensures your project starts on the right footing and avoids unnecessary delays.