Friday, 29 September 2023
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Do I Need a Planning Permit?

A permit is not always needed to use or develop land. As long as conditions are met, planning schemes allow some change in land use without needing a permit. Some uses or developments of land might be banned.

Planning permits versus building permits

A planning permit is not a building permit.

Council’s Planning Department does not approve the construction or structural integrity of a building.

This is the role of Council’s Building Surveyor, who also issues the relevant building permit in line with the Building Legislation.

If a planning permit is needed for a development, then Council’s Building Department should also be contacted to decide if a building permit is required.

What is a planning permit?

A planning permit is a legal document that allows a certain use or development to take place on a particular piece of land.

The permit is usually for the land for which it’s been granted, although sometimes a permit can be made specific to a nominated owner or operator.

A permit is always subject to a time limit and will expire under specified circumstances.

When is a planning permit needed?

Some of the most common reasons people need a planning permit is:

  • Constructing or extending a building, including a house.
  • Demolishing a building (if it has a Heritage Overlay).
  • Starting a new use on land (particularly where it may create a demand for car parks).
  • Displaying a sign.
  • Subdividing land.
  • Clearing native vegetation, including trees and shrubs.
  • Building a house in a bushfire prone area.
  • Building a house in a rural area.
  • A liquor licence or a changing an existing liquor licence, such as licensing hours.

Confirmation from Council about whether you need a planning permit

Before getting started, make sure you discuss your proposal with the Planning Department to confirm if a planning permit is required.

The Planning Officer will also be able to advise you about any extra requirements for your application.

Organise a pre-application meeting with a Planning Officer. This will avoid delays which often happen because of incomplete applications.

Need help?

Submit a Building or Planning enquiryBook a meeting with Planning

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