Building permits

The Building Act requires persons carrying out building work to obtain a building permit prior to the commencement of work.

Building permits are required for different types of buildings such as:

• industrial and commercial projects
• new dwellings
• dwelling alterations and additions
• carports, verandahs, garages, fences
• changes of use of buildings
• small second dwellings

Under the building regulations, most building work requires a building permit, with only some free standing structures that may be exempt from a building permit.

You are advised to check with Council's building department if you are unsure whether a building permit is required or not.

Important notice

Council is currently unable to accept appointments for building works and building permit applications until further notice.

Property owners seeking to appoint a relevant building surveyor should engage a registered private building surveyor.

To find a registered building surveyor, visit the Building and Plumbing Commission Practitioner Search page.