Property ownership is a great achievement in itself but there may be a time when you want to improve your property by either building on your land or renovating your existing dwelling. While all these things are exciting there are rules in place. Any building work on your property requires a permit. Permits are required by law and are designed to protect you as a property owner.

Types of Permits

There are three types of permits you may need. These are:

  • Planning permit
  • Building permit
  • Occupancy permit

Planning permits

If you have land that you want to use or develop in a particular way, you will require permission by way of a planning permit.

New homes, extensions or renovations or adding additional dwellings on your land will require a planning permit.

Building permits

All proposed buildings need to comply with the relevant building regulations. Building permits are a written approval by a private or municipal building surveyor allowing building works to commence in accordance with the approved plans, specifications and other relevant documentation.

While it may seem bothersome to have to apply for a building permit, it actually protects you during the building process. For more on how building permits can protect you while building visit the Victorian Building Authority website.

If you have a small building project, you may be exempt from requiring a building permit. Minor alterations or demolitions, pergolas associated with houses, small garden sheds and repair work for maintenance purposes are all exempt from requiring a permit.

The building permit will also specify if you need an occupancy permit or a certificate of final inspection.

Occupancy permits

Before moving into your new building, you will require a certificate of occupancy. This confirms that your building surveyor regards your building as safe for occupation.

What You Need to Apply for a Permit

When applying for a planning permit, you must:

  • Complete an application form,
  • Provide a recent certificate of title,
  • A final version of your site plan and development plans. For information on what your plans must include visit the Planning and Permits section of the Victorian Government

Requirements for a planning permit will vary between councils and additional information may be requested.

Before applying for a building permit, you must appoint a registered building surveyor who can process the building permit for you. To apply for a building permit, you will need to:

  • Submit at least three copies of drawings, specifications and allotment plans along with the completed application form,
  • Pay the building permit levy, and
  • Pay the application fee to the building surveyor.

Occupancy permits can be applied for by the owner or builder. Prior to being issued, the building surveyor may request certificates or statements from people involved in the construction.

The team of building designers at Lateral Building Design have a wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to obtaining permits for your build. To discuss your design needs, contact the LBD team on 9729 4973.