What is complying development?
Complying development is a fast-track approval process for most types of development.
Under the ‘checklist-style’ complying development code, often referred to as the Code SEPP, simple proposals or changes can be approved within 10 days if they meet specified standards, saving residents time and money. The Codes SEPP addresses straight-forward residential, commercial, industrial development among others, like demolition.
Council assesses most complying developments under the Inland code.
Complying Development Certificate (CDC) assessments and approvals in NSW can be done by both Council and Private Registered Certification firms - Council Certifiers work under the same planning codes, perform the same inspections, and issue the same occupation certificates as a Private Registered Certifier, after considering the same factors. Council Certifiers are also there to serve the public, and act in the public interest. They are bound by a code of ethical practice, administered by NSW Fair Trading.
You'll need to apply online for a CDC through the NSW Planning Portal.
The NSW government has recently released a guide to assist consumers, businesses and industry professionals to understand the process (and complexity) of the Complying Development system which is available at Guide to Complying Development – August 2022 (PDF 7.2MB)