NSW Building Approvals: A Guide to Streamlined Processes
17 December 2021. By Shane Barker, Pre-Construction Manager
NSW Building Approvals 101
IN BRIEF
When embarking on an industrial shed, industrial building, or warehouse project, securing the necessary approvals is crucial. In New South Wales, you will need both a Development Approval (DA) and a Construction Certificate (CC).
- Development Approval (DA): Focuses on compliance with Council schemes, zoning, and overlays.
- Construction Certificate (CC): Ensures compliance with the Building Code and project-specific details.
For some projects, a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) may streamline the process. Time frames for obtaining these approvals vary, with DAs taking 1 month to a year and CCs taking 1 to 4 months.
Everything You Need to Know About Building Approvals in NSW
Before diving into a commercial or industrial steel construction project, understanding the permits and approvals required is essential to avoid costly delays.
In New South Wales, the two critical approvals are the DA and the CC. Here’s what you need to know:
Development Approval (DA)
The DA is an early-stage, high-level approval that assesses compliance with:
- Council schemes
- Zoning requirements
- Environmental overlays
Construction Certificate (CC)
The CC focuses on the engineering and structural details of your project, ensuring compliance with:
- The Building Code of Australia
- Detailed architectural plans
Consider a CDC
For simpler projects, a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) may bypass the drawn-out Council approval process. This "all-in-one" approval is issued by private certifiers and can significantly reduce timeframes. At Steelcorp, we prioritise assessing if a CDC suits your project to save you time and effort.
Preparing for a Development Approval
To apply for a DA, you’ll need:
- Site plan
- Elevations
- Title documents
- Covenants (if applicable)
- Reports and compliance documents
- Evidence of traffic and car park compliance
- Drainage and retention details
- Completed application form
Time Frame: Level 1 approvals typically take between 1 month and 1 year, depending on Council workload and project complexity.
Pro Tip: Steelcorp's expert team can guide you through this process, ensuring all documentation meets Council requirements.
Preparing for a Construction Certificate
After obtaining your DA, the next step is securing your CC. Documentation required includes:

- Approved DA documentation
- Engineering, civil, structural, and hydraulic plans
- Septic permit
- Energy rating report (Section J)
- Soil report
- Title documents
- Architect-drawn plans compliant with the National Construction Code
- Completed CC application form
Most councils require three copies of all documents and a development contribution fee.
Time Frame: CC approvals take 1 to 4 months, influenced by industry demand and Council workload.
Need assistance? Steelcorp offers comprehensive support during the approvals and permits phase, ensuring a smooth transition to the construction stage.
Why Partner with Steelcorp?
Navigating the approvals process can be daunting. Steelcorp’s team of industrial steel builders and commercial steel suppliers provides expert guidance every step of the way. From initial consultations to final approvals, we ensure your project’s success.
