Getting the tick of approval from the local council can be one of the most complicated parts of building, but the permit phase can be streamlined with preparation and professional help.
When do you need to get a permit?
Getting the right permits can take time. Picture: Getty
Legislation, restrictions and processes vary between each state and territory and local government authority, but every piece of land in Australia has a set of planning and building controls that specify when a planning permit is needed and how a building should be built.
Planning permits are approved by a qualified town planner and deal with the land use and ‘built form’ in accordance with the relevant planning legislation.
What information do you need to provide for a permit?
To get one, applicants or someone acting for them, provide proposed plans to the local council, along with an application form, a fee and a copy of the title, for approval.
Building permits are approved by a qualified building surveyor and deal with internal and external building structures in accordance with safety regulations and relevant building standards.
They ensure plans and specifications for a house comply with all relevant regulations and having one means building work can start.
It’s important to know which planning and building controls apply to your property. Picture: Getty Images
Most new houses require both a planning and building permit from the local council, although there are some exemptions.
It’s important to find out exactly what planning and building controls apply to a property and discuss them with your local council.
Laura Murray, Victorian president of the Planning Institute of Australia, recommends engaging a professional town planner or other qualified professional to help with the planning process.
“The planning approval process is complex and requires assessment against the planning scheme,” she says.
“If an individual attempts to pursue a planning application on their own, it can result in time delays if insufficient information, such as inadequate drawings and assessment against planning provisions, is provided.”
The fees and timelines involved vary.
“Fees differ depending on the scale of works and cost of development from as little as $188.20 to over $50,000.
“Time frames also vary depending on complexity, this can range from three to 12 months. More complex applications tend to be nine to 12 months.”
Planning permit application process
This sample plan from the City of Boroondara, Victoria, shows you what information is required, when various authorities need that data, when you might expect to pay certain fees and what other steps are likely to be included in this phase of building a new home.
1. Before applying
- Find out about the planning scheme.
- Talk to the local council.
- Talk to the neighbours.
- Consider getting professional advice.
2. Prepare and submit application
- Application information needs to include plans drawn to scale, showing the site, floor layout and elevations. Plans should clearly identify existing and new buildings, floor levels and site levels, as well as any earthworks and vegetation removal. A schedule of materials and colours is sometimes also required.
- Fill in the application form.
- Pay the application fee.
3. Council checks application
- More information may be sought.
- Referrals may be made to external authorities, such as water boards.
4. If required, application is advertised for 14 days
- Usually by letter to the neighbours and a sign on site.
- People affected may object.
5. Council assesses application
- Consider any objections.
- Hold mediation meeting, if needed.
- Considers any referral comments.
- Assesses planning scheme provisions.
- Negotiate with permit applicant, if necessary.
- Prepare the report.
6. Council decides on application
7. Review by Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal
Please note this step is generally only required if requested at an earlier stage of the permit process.
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