The Approval Process - A guide to your pool approval
Thinking about installing a swimming pool but feeling a bit overwhelmed about where to start? You're not alone. Turning a neglected backyard into the stunning oasis you've been dreaming of can seem like a huge challenge.
We often skip over the early, less glamorous stages of planning a pool installation—there aren't many flashy before-and-after photos to show off, and it's mostly about nailing down the details rather than envisioning the final transformation. However, getting a handle on these initial steps is absolutely essential.
Getting the Right Approvals
Before you dive into building your pool, we need to sort out the necessary approvals, which come in two flavours: Complying Development Certificates (CDC) and Development Applications (DA).
Complying Development Certificate (CDC): Handled by a private certifier, the CDC route is quicker if your plans tick all the boxes. If everything's in order, you could get the green light in two to three weeks once you have all the required documentation —a breeze compared to other methods!
Development Application (DA): If your project doesn’t fit the CDC criteria, you’ll need to go through your local council with a DA. This takes longer and involves more detailed scrutiny according to your local council’s guidelines.
Key Points to Consider in the Approval Process
When eyeing a Complying Development for your property, keep in mind a few key aspects:
Block size and Landscaping ratio: How much space you have will directly affect how much landscaping you’ll need around your pool. Remember, 50% of your landscaping should be at the back, but the front counts too!
Zoning: The area your property is in can affect whether you can go for a CDC or need a DA, making your journey to pool paradise either a sprint or a jog.
Sydney Water Approval: No matter which application you’re filing, getting a thumbs up from Sydney Water is crucial, especially if your pool will be near a sewer line. It might seem like an extra hoop to jump through, but it’s pretty straightforward with the right help.
Environmental Considerations: Got a native Australian tree in your yard? You’ll want to make sure your pool isn’t too close—keep it at least three meters away to avoid any issues.
What Documents Help with the Approval Process
We will gather all the required documentation as part of your pool approval application. Although if you have any of the documents below, it speeds up the process that little bit more.
Title Search: Also known as a Title Deed, it is provided to owners of land or property within NSW. This will tell us who the legal owners of the property are.
10.7 Planning Certificate: This certificate is issued by your local council. It contains information about how your property may be used and any restrictions on development that may apply. This can be found via your local council’s website.
Deposited Plan: This document defines your properties legal boundaries (it provides you exact dimensions of your block), it also shows any easements that may affect your property.
We're here to take the mystery out of these steps at Newpools. We handle both the design and the approval processes, so all you need to do is get in touch, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Ready to Take the Plunge?
Excited to get started on your pool project? We’d love to help turn your vision into reality. Get in touch to set up a site inspection and take the first step towards your new backyard oasis. Your dream pool is closer than you might think!