DA vs CDC: cost, timeline & which is cheaper
The approval pathway you take decides how much you pay and how long you wait. A CDC is usually the cheaper, faster route — but not every project qualifies. Here's how they compare, and how to find out which one your property is eligible for.
Check your property's pathway →| CDC (Complying Development) | DA (Development Application) | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical cost | $3,000–$8,000 | $5,000–$25,000+ |
| Timeline | ~10–20 days | 40–90+ days |
| Assessed by | Private certifier | Council |
| Advertising / notification | None | Usually required |
| Developer contributions | Rare / smaller | Often apply (s7.11/7.12) |
| Available when | Project meets the CDC codes | Anything that doesn't |
So which is cheaper?
A CDC is almost always the cheaper and faster path — it skips council assessment, public advertising and (usually) developer contributions. But you can only use it if your project fits the NSW Complying Development codes for your zone: setbacks, height, floor space ratio, and overlays like flood, bushfire or heritage. Miss any of those and you're into DA territory — with the extra cost and months of assessment that come with it.
The catch: whether you qualify depends entirely on your address — its zone, its overlays, and the exact work you're doing. A generic answer won't tell you which pathway (and which bill) applies to you.
Find out which pathway your property qualifies for
Enter your address — we'll check your zone, overlays and project type, tell you whether it's CDC or DA, and itemise the full cost either way. $39 for the complete report.
See your pathway & costs →Frequently asked questions
Is a CDC cheaper than a DA?
Usually — $3k–$8k for a CDC vs $5k–$25k+ for a DA, and ~10–20 days vs 40–90+. The DA adds council assessment, advertising and often contributions.
How do I know if I qualify for a CDC?
Your project must meet the Complying Development codes for your zone — setbacks, height, FSR, and overlays. If it doesn't, a DA is required. It's property-specific, which is why an address check is the only way to be sure.
Can the same certifier do my CDC and be my Principal Certifier?
Yes, and they often do — but they're two separate appointments. You can't start work until the CDC is issued and a Principal Certifier is formally appointed.
CDC or DA? Know before you plan.
Your address decides the pathway — and the cost. Find out yours in two minutes.
Enter your address →