NSW Renovation Rules Explained: Council Approval, CDC or Exempt?

NSW Renovation Rules Explained is the first step every Sydney homeowner should understand before starting a renovation. Knowing the council approval process is just as important as choosing tiles or paint colours. In New South Wales, certain types of renovations require formal approval from your local council or a certifier. Ignoring this step can lead to costly fines, stop-work orders, or even demolition of completed work.

At RJG Group, we help our clients navigate approvals with ease. This guide, NSW Renovation Rules Explained, breaks down the essentials with real examples, practical advice, and professional insights so you can plan confidently.

Why Approvals Matter

Renovation work is regulated to keep homes safe, sustainable, and in harmony with the community. NSW Renovation Rules Explained highlight that approvals exist to:

• Maintain building and safety standards
• Ensure works won’t negatively impact neighbours
• Protect heritage-listed or environmentally sensitive sites
• Confirm zoning compliance for land use

If your renovation is found to be non-compliant, you could be forced to undo the work, an expensive and avoidable mistake.

Understanding the Three Approval Pathways in NSW

In NSW, renovation works typically fall under one of three categories, depending on the type, scale and location of the project:

1. Exempt Development – NSW Renovation Rules Explained

   These are minor works that don’t require council or certifier approval, as long as they meet strict development standards under the NSW Planning Portal. For example, repainting, re-cladding, or re-roofing a home may be carried out without approval. Additionally, you can install a garden shed or pergola, provided it stays within size and height limits. Furthermore, internal updates such as flooring or cabinetry are allowed, as long as they don’t involve structural changes. Finally, replacing windows and doors is also acceptable, so long as you are not enlarging the existing openings.

Always check the NSW Exempt Development Guidelines to confirm your eligibility.

2. Complying Development (CDC) – NSW Renovation Rules Explained

   A streamlined approval path for larger projects that meet pre-set planning and building rules. You apply through a registered certifier or council for a Complying Development Certificate.

Typical CDC projects include:

• Single-storey extensions within height/setback limits
• Detached studios, sheds or garages
• Granny flats on standard lots
• Swimming pools and decks
• Internal reconfigurations that comply with the SEPP (Exempt and Complying Development Codes)

Timeframe: Usually approved within 20 days if your plans meet all criteria. Tip: RJG Group works with certifiers to confirm whether your project qualifies before submission.

3. Development Application (DA) – NSW Renovation Rules Explained

   A DA is required when your renovation doesn’t qualify as exempt or complying development. This involves submitting a detailed application to your local council for assessment.

Common DA triggers include the following:

• First, multi-storey or complex extensions

• Next, alterations to heritage-listed properties

• In addition, construction in bushfire, flood, or conservation zones

• Finally, projects breaching local setback or floor space rules

What You’ll Need:

• Site plan and elevation drawings
• Statement of Environmental Effects
• Heritage impact statement (if required)
• Stormwater and BASIX certification
• Public exhibition and neighbour notification process

Approval time: Can take 6–12 weeks depending on council backlog and complexity.

Real Example: Michael and Lina’s Granny Flat in Blacktown

Michael and Lina wanted to build a 60sqm granny flat in their backyard for Lina’s mother. Initially, they assumed they needed a DA, but RJG Group reviewed their lot and confirmed it met CDC criteria (minimum lot size, rear access, correct setbacks). Working with a private certifier, we obtained their CDC in under three weeks, saving time, council fees and stress.

What Type of Renovation Needs What?

Renovation Type	Exempt	CDC	DA Required
Kitchen/Bathroom (internal only)	✅	No	Only if major plumbing/structural changes
Deck under 25sqm & 1m high	✅	No	If over size or near boundary
Pergola or shade structure	✅	If over 20sqm	If not meeting standards
Garage conversion	No	✅	Sometimes (heritage/flood zone)
Granny flat	No	✅	DA for strata or non-compliant lots
Pool or spa	No	✅	DA if on sloped site or flood zone
Solar panels	✅	–	DA for heritage homes
Fence (under 1.8m side/rear)	✅	No	DA for higher or retaining walls

Skipping Approval: NSW Renovation Rules Explained

Undertaking renovations without the required approvals can have significant legal, financial and practical consequences. Homeowners who proceed without the correct documentation and sign-offs risk encountering serious problems, including:

• Being issued with stop work orders that can delay your project indefinitely
• Receiving fines and legal notices for breaching planning or building regulations
• Facing the prospect of mandatory demolition of unapproved structures, regardless of how much has been spent
• Encountering difficulties during property resale, including failed building inspections or contract cancellations
• Having your home insurance claim denied in the event of damage or defect due to non-compliant work

For peace of mind, it is always better to confirm what approvals are required before any work begins. RJG Group helps homeowners avoid these setbacks by ensuring every stage is legally sound.

Helpful Resources for Homeowners

• NSW Planning Portal
• Complying Development Explained
• BASIX Certificates
• Check Zoning and Planning Rules

How RJG Group Simplifies Approvals – NSW Renovation Rules Explained

At RJG Group, our experienced builders and project managers handle the approval process from start to finish. We understand that navigating council regulations and compliance frameworks can be overwhelming, especially when rules vary between suburbs.

Our approach includes:

• Coordinating directly with private certifiers or local councils to determine the most efficient path forward
• Organising essential site surveys, reports, and supporting documentation
• Providing tailored design advice to help your renovation meet compliance requirements while preserving your design goals
• Preparing and lodging all paperwork for CDCs or DAs on your behalf
• Managing the entire inspection and follow-up process to keep your timeline on track

We focus on getting it right the first time, helping you avoid unnecessary delays, costs and compliance headaches.

Final Checklist Before Starting Your Renovation

Before breaking ground on your project, take the time to check the following:

• Confirm your property’s zoning and whether it falls within a bushfire, flood, or heritage overlay
• Determine whether your renovation qualifies as exempt, complying development or requires a DA
• Gather the necessary supporting documents such as site plans, shadow diagrams, BASIX reports and sewer diagrams
• Understand that no two properties are the same, neighbours’ approvals may not apply to your site
• Speak to a professional builder or certifier early in the planning stage to avoid costly changes down the track

NSW Renovation Rules Explained: Partner with RJG Group

Council approvals don’t have to be a roadblock. With NSW Renovation Rules Explained clearly, RJG Group helps you secure approvals, stay compliant, and focus on bringing your renovation to life.

Contact us today to find out how we can help you secure your approvals, meet your deadlines, and turn your renovation plans into a reality.