Your contract should state who is responsible for obtaining a building or planning permit if they are required—whether it’s you, your architect, builder or another professional.
Building permits are issued by your building surveyor. All building and demolition work requires a building permit unless an exemption exists. For example, garages, sheds and fences do not require a building permit if they meet certain conditions, and renovations may not require a building permit if the structural soundness and safety of the home are not affected.
Find out whether your project requires a building permit by reading the VBA’s practice note below.
Planning permits are issued by your local council. You may need a planning permit if you are building, extending or renovating your home. To find out whether your project requires a planning permit, contact your local council and talk to a council planner about your project. Read about planning permits and the application process through Planning Victoria.
Building work can’t begin until the building permit is issued, and a building permit can’t be issued until the planning permit has been obtained.
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Page last updated: 27/09/22