Here’s an overview of the full building permit process. Even for small projects, the documentation requirements can be extensive. The success of a construction project relies on accurately completing all necessary documentation upfront and identifying any third-party approvals required, which can vary based on the project’s scope, location, and existing title restrictions.
LEGEND:
Key terms you should understand when navigating the building permit process.
A qualified and licensed professional responsible for assessing and certifying the compliance of construction projects with relevant building codes, regulations, and standards. A surveyor must hold a current VBA registration.
A legal right that allows someone (often a neighbor or utility company) to access or use a specific portion of another person's property for a particular purpose. Constructing over or near an easement requires consent from the responsible authority.
Ensures compliance with zoning regulations, building codes, and environmental considerations while facilitating urban development and managing land use within a community. May or may not be required depending on where you live and the type of construction project.
An additional council approval required for some construction projects. It is generally related to construction siting considerations.
Required examinations of construction work during different stages of a building project. These inspections are conducted by authorized building surveyors or inspectors to ensure compliance with building regulations, safety standards, and approved plans.
A regulatory tool used to apply specific planning controls and restrictions to land or properties. These overlays address various factors like environmental protection, heritage preservation, or flood risk.
Ensures that the construction work has been completed in compliance with all applicable building codes, regulations, and approved plans, meeting the necessary safety and legal requirements for occupation.
Temporary measures put in place during construction to safeguard public safety, adjacent properties, and the environment. These may include safety barriers, fencing, dust control measures, and erosion prevention.
In addition to your permit, let us coordinate the trade services you’ll require including concrete works, decking, fencing and electrical – ensuring everything is completed safely, compliantly and on time.
All building permit applications require a letter of appointment, plans, property title, plan of subdivision and property information certificate. Other documentation requirements are assessed on a case-by-case basis depending on what you are wanting to build and where you live.
There are two costs involved with a permit:
The processing time for obtaining a building permit in Victoria, Australia, can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of your project, location, and the completeness of your application. Typical processing times for a standard residential building permit can range from 4 to 12 weeks or more.
When is a building permit not required? If you are constructing a shed or building less than 10m2, you may not require a permit if it is less than 3.6m tall (or 2.4m tall if located within 1m of a boundary) and built out of a material other than masonry. Contact your council if you believe your proposed structure fits this profile and they will confirm whether you are exempt from a permit.
For owner-builders, VBA Owner Builder consent is required in Victoria for residential construction or renovations exceeding a specified cost threshold (typically $16,000 or more in labour and materials). The work must be non-commercial, meet building regulations, and the owner builder must live in the property for a specified time after completion.
Undertaking construction in Victoria without the required permits can lead to substantial fines, legal actions, and the potential requirement to dismantle the structure entirely. It is crucial to make certain that you acquire the essential permits and authorizations before initiating any building activities
