Key Takeaways
- DA or CDC approval required before any demolition work
- CDC is faster (10-20 days) but not available for heritage properties
- Penalties for unauthorised demolition can exceed $50,000
Do You Need a Permit?
Yes. All house demolitions in Sydney require formal approval before work can begin. Demolishing without proper permits can result in fines exceeding $50,000 and mandatory reconstruction orders.
This guide explains the permit options, requirements, and process for Sydney in 2026.
Types of Demolition Permits
There are two pathways to obtaining demolition approval in Sydney:
Development Application (DA)
A DA is submitted to your local council and is required for:
- Heritage-listed properties or conservation areas
- Properties with complex site conditions
- Demolitions that don't meet CDC criteria
- Projects requiring broader planning assessment
Timeline: 4-8 weeks typical
Cost: $500-$2,500 depending on council
Complying Development Certificate (CDC)
A CDC is issued by a private certifier and offers faster approval for standard demolitions:
- Faster processing than council DA
- Fixed timeframes (10-20 days)
- Clear, predictable requirements
- Suitable for most residential demolitions
Timeline: 10-20 working days
Cost: $1,500-$3,500
Required Documentation
Regardless of which pathway, you'll need:
| Document | Purpose | Who Provides |
|---|---|---|
| Application Form | Formal request for approval | Contractor/Owner |
| Site Plan | Shows property and structures | Surveyor/Contractor |
| Demolition Plan | Method and safety procedures | Contractor |
| Asbestos Survey | Identifies hazardous materials | Licensed Assessor |
| Traffic Management | Road/footpath use plan | Contractor |
| Waste Management | Disposal and recycling plan | Contractor |
| Insurance Certificate | Public liability coverage | Contractor |
| Contractor Licence | SafeWork NSW demolition licence | Contractor |
The Approval Process
Step 1: Engage a Licensed Contractor
Your contractor prepares all documentation and manages the application process. Read our guide on choosing a demolition contractor.
Step 2: Site Assessment
A thorough assessment identifies all requirements including asbestos, heritage considerations, and site-specific conditions.
Step 3: Document Preparation
Your contractor compiles all required documentation including plans, surveys, and management plans.
Step 4: Submission
The application is submitted to council (DA) or private certifier (CDC) with all supporting documents.
Step 5: Assessment
The assessing authority reviews the application, may request additional information, and issues approval.
Step 6: Pre-Demolition Requirements
Before work begins, additional notifications may be required to SafeWork NSW and utility providers.
Council-Specific Requirements
Different Sydney councils have varying requirements. Some considerations:
- Heritage overlays: Additional heritage impact assessment
- Tree preservation: Protection plans for significant trees
- Notification: Neighbour notification requirements
- Working hours: Restrictions on demolition times
- Waste removal: Specific disposal requirements
We Handle All Permits
At Gabrael House Demolition, we manage the entire permit process. Our team prepares all documentation, handles submissions, and coordinates with councils or certifiers. You don't need to navigate the bureaucracy yourself.
Common Permit Issues
Applications can be delayed or rejected due to:
- Incomplete documentation: Missing plans or surveys
- Heritage considerations: Unexpected heritage overlay
- Neighbour objections: Concerns about impact
- Environmental issues: Tree removal or contamination
- Incorrect application type: Using CDC when DA required
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Demolishing without proper permits is a serious offence:
- Fines: Up to $50,000+ for individuals
- Stop work orders: Immediate cessation of all work
- Reconstruction orders: Requirement to rebuild
- Legal action: Court proceedings for serious breaches
- Insurance voiding: Coverage may be invalidated
Permit Costs Overview
Budget for these permit-related costs in addition to the actual demolition. These costs are in addition to the actual demolition costs.
| Item | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Development Application (DA) | $500-$2,500 |
| Complying Development Certificate (CDC) | $1,500-$3,500 |
| Asbestos Survey | $300-$800 |
| Site Survey | $500-$1,500 |
| Heritage Assessment (if required) | $1,000-$3,000 |
Let Us Handle Your Permits
Navigating the permit process doesn't have to be stressful. Our experienced team handles everything from application to approval.
Free Consultation
Discuss your project with our team. We'll explain the permit requirements for your specific property and provide a complete quote including all approvals.
Request your free consultation or call 1300 329 600.
Gabrael House Demolition
Demolition Industry Leaders
Our demolition experts have over 30 years of experience providing professional house demolition, asbestos removal, site remediation, and site preparation services across Sydney. We're committed to delivering safe, environmentally responsible, and high-quality demolition solutions for residential properties throughout Sydney and surrounding regions.
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