Building permits
A building permit is official approval to begin construction or renovation. It ensures the work complies with building regulations, safety standards, and legal requirements.
Building permits can be issued by a:
- municipal building surveyor through Council, or
- registered private building surveyor.
Contact Building Services to learn more about building permits.
When you need a building permit
Any time you want to do building work around the house, it is very likely that you will need a building permit.
Common works that you may need a building permit for, include:
- Additions to dwellings and other buildings
- Alterations
- Carports / garages
- External stairs or landings
- Fences and decks
- Solar panels fitted directly to the roof of a building
- Wood heaters
- Reblocking or restumping of an existing building
- Antennas or masts
- Pergolas
- Verandahs
- Shade sails
- Retaining walls
- Roofing
- Sheds, gazebos, shipping containers or like structures
- Signs
- Swimming pools/spas and barriers
- Windows
- Water tanks
Find out if you need a building permit
Exemptions
Some building work may not need a building permit, such as:
- General maintenance and repairs
- Minor alterations that:
- Do not affect the structure or safety of a building
- Do not extend beyond the property line
- Are not done on an historic building
- Do not involve easements controlled by the Council or another Authority.
Do you need a permit?
You may need to apply for a planning permit in addition to your building permit application.
Find out if you need a planning permit.
Need help?
Contact Building Services and we will get back to you.
Or call our Building Services team on 9298 8125.
