Do you need council approval to renovate your bathroom in Sydney? The answer depends on the scope of your project. While many cosmetic upgrades can proceed without permission, structural changes, plumbing relocations, or work on heritage homes often trigger the need for formal approval.
Understanding when council approval is required ensures your bathroom renovation is legally compliant, avoids delays, and protects the value of your home. This guide covers everything Sydney homeowners need to know from when approval is needed to how to apply and comply.
We also include links to official sources like the NSW Planning Portal and Building Code of Australia to ensure you have everything you need at your fingertips
When Is Council Approval Required for a Bathroom Renovation?
Do all bathroom renovations need approval?
No, minor cosmetic bathroom renovations typically don’t require council approval. If you’re only replacing like-for-like fixtures for example, updating a vanity, retiling, painting, or installing a new shower screen and you’re not altering the plumbing layout or structural elements, you likely don’t need formal approval. However, your work must still comply with safety and waterproofing standards such as AS 3740:2021.
When is approval mandatory?
Yes, you need approval if your renovation involves structural or plumbing modifications. Common cases include:
- Relocating plumbing fixtures (e.g. moving the toilet, basin, or shower)
- Changing internal walls or altering load-bearing structures
- Extending the bathroom area into adjacent spaces
- Adding a new bathroom in a previously unused zone
- Renovating within a heritage-listed or strata property
Local council rules can be strict especially in conservation areas or flood-prone zones,so it’s best to confirm early.
Understanding DA vs CDC: Which One Do You Need?
Bathroom renovations in NSW require either a Development Application (DA) or a Complying Development Certificate (CDC).
What is a Development Application (DA)?
A DA is formal approval sought from your local council. It applies when your renovation is complex, non-standard, or falls outside the fast-track CDC guidelines. This is typical for:
- Heritage-listed homes
- Zoning non-compliant projects
- Major structural works
More info at the NSW Planning Portal: Development Applications.
What is a Complying Development Certificate (CDC)?
A CDC is a streamlined approval granted by a private certifier. It applies when your renovation meets pre-set conditions under the State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) and BCA. CDCs are suitable for straightforward bathroom projects that involve layout or plumbing changes.
How do you know which one applies?
| Factor | DA | CDC |
|---|---|---|
| Approval By | Local Council | Private Certifier |
| Approval Time | 4–8 weeks | 1–2 weeks |
| Flexibility | High | Limited to strict codes |
| Ideal For | Complex or heritage works | Standard bathroom upgrades |
Use the CDC Assessment Tool to check eligibility.
Legal & Safety Requirements for Bathroom Renovations
Regardless of approval type, all bathroom renovations must comply with national and state codes:
- Waterproofing: Must meet AS 3740
- Ventilation: Required to prevent moisture build-up and mould
- Licensed Trades: All plumbing and electrical must be done by licensed professionals (NSW Fair Trading)
- Accessibility: For seniors or mobility renovations, follow Livable Housing Design Guidelines
Special Cases: Heritage, Flood Zones & Strata Titles
Do heritage-listed homes need approval?
Yes, nearly always. Even internal works may require DA approval and a heritage impact statement. Confirm via the NSW Heritage Database.
What if I live in a strata property?
You’ll need both strata and council or CDC approval. Strata laws often treat walls and plumbing risers as shared property, requiring committee consent. This is especially true for disabled bathroom renovations.
How to Check if You Need Approval
To avoid costly mistakes, take these steps before you renovate:
- Check zoning overlays on the NSW Planning Portal Spatial Viewer
- Review your LGA’s regulations on your council website
- Consult a private certifier for CDC pathway options
- Engage a licensed builder who understands local codes
- Get formal consent from strata or heritage authorities
What to Do Next — Step-by-Step for Renovating Legally
Here’s a simplified checklist to follow before you begin:
- Define the scope of your renovation
- Check local regulations and zoning constraints
- Choose the right approval path (DA or CDC)
- Engage certified professionals for design and compliance
- Obtain all necessary approvals before starting work
- Retain all documentation for insurance and future resale
Before you pick tiles or finalise designs, get clear on whether you’ll need council approval and which pathway is right for you. From standard Sydney bathroom renovations, the team at Empire Tiles provides expert guidance, planning, and construction all up to code.
Still mapping out your timeline? See how long a bathroom renovation takes in Sydney so you can align your CDC or DA approval accordingly.
FAQ: People Also Ask
What’s the difference between a DA and CDC?
A DA is slower but more flexible; a CDC is faster but must meet strict criteria.
Can I do my own waterproofing during a renovation?
No, it must be done by a licensed waterproofer in NSW to ensure code compliance.
How long does a bathroom DA take to get approved?
Usually 4–8 weeks, depending on your local council’s review process
What Should You Do Before Renovating Your Bathroom?
If you’re planning a bathroom renovation in Sydney, your first step should be to understand the scope of your project and whether it affects plumbing, structure, or compliance regulations. From there, identify whether you qualify for a fast-tracked Complying Development Certificate (CDC) or will need to go through a full Development Application (DA) with your council.
Before you even pick tiles or plan layouts, speak with a licensed professional who can help you navigate approval pathways. At Empire Tiles, we specialise in legally compliant and visually stunning bathroom renovations in Sydney, including complex projects such as ensuite bathroom design or disabled bathroom renovations that require additional planning and care.
