What is the NSW Commercial and Industrial Code?
A NSW Government initiative for business owners who want a change of use, minor external works or internal alterations to commercial and industrial premises.
It's an alternative to the traditional development application (DA) process. The NSW Commercial and Industrial Code aims to save time and money by making these approvals easier and faster. Your business can commence trading in your premises sooner.
Do I qualify for a 10 day or less approval?
Before you start building you need to know if you need planning approval. The earlier you think about the types of approval you may need the easier the planning process will be. You will be able to design your development around the approval requirements.
No planning approval
In some cases you don't need any planning approval at all. For example, you may be able to replace existing signage, install access ramps, an ATM or bollards without the need for approval. This type of development is also called "exempt development". For more information read this fact sheet.
For a full list of the projects that don't need approval scroll to "Division 1 General Exempt Development Code" in this NSW Legislation link.
All the rules for these projects are here. You may also need to check your zoning with your council.
Council contacts
Also, check with your local council, builder, architect or contact the Department of Planning.
Department of Planning contact
10 day or less approval
There are certain conditions that your development must satisfy to get a 10 day approval. Download the user guide for more information.
This fast-track approval type of development is also called "compying development". The State Environmental Planning Policy (exempt and Complying Codes) 2008 contains all the rules and requirements.
Your local council, architect, designer or an accredited private certifer or planning consultant can help you with this.
Council contacts
To find a private certifer
Traditional development application (DA)
If your project does not meet the rules for a 10 day or less approval you can apply for a development application through your local council. Your development application will be assessed in accordance with the development standards established by local council.
Wherever a building does not meet either the exempt or complying development rules then a development application will need to be lodged.
Your local council, architect, designer or an accredited private certifer or planning consultant can help you with this.
Council contacts