Question 1

What is a CDC (Complying Development Certificate)?

Accepted Answer

A Complying Development Certificate (CDC) is a fast-track development approval pathway assessed against predetermined, non-discretionary development standards. Once issued, it certifies that a proposed development complies with the relevant planning controls and legislation. A CDC can be determined by Council or an accredited certifier and applies to a range of development types, including new dwellings, renovations, and demolition works.

Question 2

What is a DA (Development Application)?

Accepted Answer

A Development Application (DA) is a formal application submitted to Council for a merit-based assessment of proposed development. A DA is typically required where a proposal does not meet the criteria for Exempt or Complying Development, or where the scale, nature, or potential impacts of the development require detailed consideration.While the DA process is generally more complex and involves a higher level of assessment, our experience in preparing and managing applications, along with our established experience, helps streamline the process and support efficient approval outcomes for our clients

Question 3

What is a Section 10.7 Planning Certificate?

Accepted Answer

A Section 10.7 Planning Certificate (previously known as a Section 149 Certificate) is a legal document issued by Council that outlines the planning controls and constraints applicable to a specific parcel of land.The certificate provides key information relating to zoning, land use permissibility, and relevant development controls, as well as site-specific considerations such as flooding, bushfire risk, contamination, heritage listings, and other environmental or planning constraints.This document is commonly required during the property purchase and development process, as it helps inform buyers, designers, and developers of the applicable planning framework governing the land.

Question 4

What is a Contract for Sale?

Accepted Answer

A Contract for Sale is a legally binding document that sets out the terms and conditions of a property transaction. It includes key details such as the property address and description, the names and addresses of the vendor and purchaser, and the agreed settlement date.The contract also outlines important supporting information, including the Section 10.7 Planning Certificate, possession details, inclusions and exclusions, and any special conditions that apply to the sale.This document forms a critical part of the conveyancing process and ensures both parties are clear on their rights and obligations prior to settlement.

Question 5

Will I need a land Survey?

Accepted Answer

Prior to commencing the design process, a land survey is essential to accurately identify the characteristics and development potential of your site. The survey provides critical information including property boundaries, existing levels, contours, easements, structures, vegetation, and other site features, as well as relevant details relating to adjoining properties.This information forms the foundation of the design and approval process, enabling informed design decisions and ensuring accuracy throughout project planning. Land surveys are required for new dwellings, alterations and additions, dual occupancies, multi-dwelling developments, and subdivisions.

Question 6

What is a Preliminary Planning Assessment?

Accepted Answer

A Preliminary Planning Assessment (PPA) is a comprehensive review of a site's planning constraints, opportunities, and development potential. The assessment includes a detailed analysis of applicable planning controls, zoning requirements, environmental constraints, building setbacks, lot characteristics, and potential bushfire, flood, heritage, or other site-specific considerations.The resulting report provides a clear understanding of the site's development potential and identifies the most appropriate approval pathway for your project. This may include a Complying Development Certificate (CDC), Development Application (DA), or a combination of approval pathways, helping to minimise risk and inform project feasibility from the outset.

Question 7

Do I need council approval for my development?

Accepted Answer

Unless your project qualifies as Exempt Development, most building works will require some form of planning or development approval.Exempt Development generally applies to minor works such as decks, sheds, fences, and other low-impact development that meets specific planning standards and can be carried out without formal approval.Complying Development provides a fast-tracked approval pathway for eligible developments and is assessed by an accredited certifier. This pathway commonly applies to certain alterations and additions, secondary dwellings, and other compliant residential developments.Projects that do not meet the requirements for Exempt or Complying Development typically require a Development Application (DA), which is assessed and approved by the relevant Council. This pathway is generally required for more complex developments and larger-scale projects.Our experienced Town Planners can assess your proposal and advise on the most suitable approval pathway for your development, helping to streamline the process and achieve the best possible outcome.

Question 8

What is unauthorised works?

Accepted Answer

Unauthorised works refer to building or construction works that have been carried out without the required approvals, or in a manner that does not comply with applicable planning controls, development consents, or building regulations under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.Unauthorised works can result in compliance action by Council, including penalty infringement notices, orders to cease works, requirements to obtain retrospective approval, or, in some cases, demolition or rectification orders.If unauthorised works have been undertaken on your property, our experienced Town Planners can assess your circumstances and advise on the most appropriate pathway forward. This may include preparing and lodging applications for a Building Information Certificate or other approval mechanisms to help regularise the development and resolve compliance issues.

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