Council approvals are one of the most misunderstood parts of renovating in Sydney. We regularly speak with homeowners who aren’t sure whether approval is required, which pathway applies, or how early it needs to be factored into planning. When approvals are misunderstood or left too late, we often see renovations delayed, redesigned, or unnecessarily complicated.
In this article, we explain how council approvals and permits work in NSW, when they’re required, and how we help homeowners navigate the process clearly and confidently before construction begins.
Quick Take:
Not every renovation in Sydney needs council approval, but many do — particularly when structural changes, extensions, heritage properties, or secondary dwellings are involved. We always recommend confirming whether your project falls under a DA, CDC, or exempt development early to avoid delays, redesigns, and compliance issues.
Key Takeaway Questions
- Do we need council approval for our renovation in Sydney?
- What’s the difference between a DA and a CDC in NSW?
- Which renovation projects usually require permits?
- How long do approvals take, and what affects timelines?
- How can we avoid approval-related delays and legal issues?
Do all renovations in Sydney need council approval?
No — but it’s rarely obvious which ones do.
Cosmetic internal renovations such as painting, replacing flooring, or updating cabinetry without changing layouts or structure are often considered exempt development and don’t require council approval.
Once a renovation involves structural changes, layout alterations, or external works, approval requirements become far more likely. This is especially true for projects like home extensions and additions, where planning controls, setbacks, height limits, and engineering requirements all affect whether approval is required and which pathway applies.
For these types of renovations, we always recommend factoring council considerations into the planning process from the very beginning — not after designs and budgets are already locked in.
Understanding DA vs CDC in NSW
Most renovation approvals in Sydney fall under one of two pathways: a Development Application (DA) or a Complying Development Certificate (CDC).
A Development Application (DA) is assessed by the local council. We usually see DAs required for more complex renovations, heritage properties, or sites with planning constraints. DA approvals often take longer and may involve public notification and requests for additional documentation.
A Complying Development Certificate (CDC) is a faster approval pathway for renovations that meet strict NSW planning standards. When a project qualifies, a CDC can significantly reduce approval time. However, the design must comply exactly with the rules — there’s very little flexibility once documentation is submitted.
Choosing the right pathway early often influences design decisions, timelines, and overall cost.
If you’re planning a renovation in Sydney and want accurate advice for your specific property type, this is where we recommend slowing down. Approval requirements can change depending on zoning, heritage controls, site conditions, and scope. We help clients confirm the correct approval pathway early, before designs or budgets are locked in, to avoid issues later in the project.
DA vs CDC: Decision Flow for Sydney Renovations
While every renovation needs individual assessment, most Sydney projects follow a similar decision path.
If the work is limited to cosmetic internal changes with no structural or layout alterations, approval is often not required. Once the structure is altered or external work is involved, approval becomes far more likely.
If the design meets NSW complying development standards for size, setbacks, and height, a CDC may apply. If the property is heritage-listed, located in a conservation area, or affected by planning constraints such as flood or bushfire overlays, a DA is usually required instead.
We use this decision flow early in the planning process to help clients understand why approval pathways differ and what that means for their renovation timeline.
Common renovation projects that require approval
Some renovation types almost always trigger council approval requirements.
Structural changes, such as removing load-bearing walls or altering roof structures, typically require approval. Extensions and additions do as well, particularly when they affect setbacks, height, or floor space ratios.
External works are another common trigger. Projects involving outdoor kitchens, built-in BBQs, pergolas, or other external structures are often regulated under local planning controls. We cover this in more detail in our guide to council rules for outdoor kitchens and BBQs in NSW.
Heritage properties and special planning controls
Renovating a heritage-listed property or a home in a conservation area involves additional approval requirements and design sensitivity.
Councils assess how proposed works affect the character and significance of the property, which can influence materials, layouts, and construction methods. Approval documentation is usually more detailed, and timelines are often longer.
If you’re renovating a heritage home, we recommend reviewing our article on council approval for heritage renovations in Sydney, which explains what councils typically look for and how we help clients navigate this process.
Granny flats, secondary dwellings, and external workspaces
Granny flats and external office spaces are tightly regulated in NSW, even when built on residential land.
Approval requirements cover zoning, size limits, setbacks, fire separation, and services. While many secondary dwellings can be approved under a CDC, this only applies when strict criteria are met.
If you’re considering a self-contained structure, our guide to the granny flat approval process in NSW explains how approvals work in practice and what homeowners commonly overlook.
For projects that include detached workspaces or secondary dwellings, we also outline our approach on our granny flats and external office spaces.
How long do council approvals take in Sydney?
Approval timeframes depend on the pathway and complexity of the project.
CDC approvals are generally faster when the eligibility criteria are met. DA approvals usually take longer due to council assessment processes, potential public notification, and design revisions.
We find that incomplete documentation, late design changes, and heritage overlays are the most common causes of delays. Proper preparation upfront is the most effective way to keep approvals moving.
How we help homeowners navigate council approvals
When we assist with renovation planning, council approvals are considered from the outset.
We assess scope, zoning, and property type early to identify the most appropriate approval pathway. This helps ensure designs align with planning controls before submissions are made, rather than requiring changes later.
For projects involving extensions, granny flats, or external structures, this early alignment is especially important, as approval requirements are more detailed and less flexible.
What happens if you renovate without approval?
Renovating without required approvals can lead to serious issues.
Councils may issue stop-work notices, require retrospective approvals, or request rectification work. Unapproved renovations can also affect insurance coverage and create complications when selling a property.
Understanding approval requirements early protects both your renovation investment and your property’s long-term value.
Ready to take the next step?
If you’re planning a renovation and want clarity around council approvals and permits, the next step is to speak with us at Sydney Renovation Group.
We can help you get a Sydney-specific renovation estimate, book a feasibility consultation, and speak with a renovation specialist about your scope, property type, and compliance risks. Getting the approval pathway right early can save months of delays — and unnecessary cost — later on.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we need council approval for internal renovations?
Not always. Cosmetic internal renovations usually don’t require approval, while structural changes typically do.
What’s the difference between DA and CDC approval?
A DA is assessed by council and allows more design flexibility. A CDC is faster but only applies if strict planning criteria are met.
Do heritage homes need special approval?
Yes. Heritage-listed homes and properties in conservation areas usually require additional approvals and documentation.
Can council approvals affect renovation costs?
Yes. Approval pathways can influence design decisions, documentation requirements, timelines, and overall renovation costs.
