How to Get Granny Flat Approval in NSW
Every granny flat requires approval. CDC (private certifier, 10–15 business days) or DA (council, 40–90 days). Buildana (Lic. 487805C) manages the full approval process.
CDC — The Standard Pathway
~85% of granny flats qualify. Requirements: residential zone, 450 sqm+ lot, not heritage/flood/bushfire, 60 sqm or less, all setbacks met, height compliant.
Process: prepare documentation → lodge with certifier → 10–15 business days → approved → construction begins. Cost: $3,000–$5,000.
DA — When Required
Triggers: heritage conservation area, flood zone, bushfire BAL-40+, non-standard design. Process: optional pre-lodgement → prepare DA → lodge with council → neighbour notification 14 days → assessment 40–90 days. Cost: $3,000–$10,000.
DA takes longer and costs more but provides design flexibility that CDC cannot.
Documentation Required
Both pathways: architectural drawings, BASIX certificate, structural engineering, geotechnical report, survey plan, stormwater management plan. DA additionally: Statement of Environmental Effects, shadow diagrams, landscape plan, any council-specific reports.
Buildana prepares all documentation. Contact us for a free site assessment.
