Do I need a planning or building permit?

Are you planning to build, subdivide, renovate or extend? Find out if you need a planning or building permit and how to start the process and all the requirements.
Knowing what permits you might need can be confusing. The rules and requirements vary depending on where your land is and what you want to do. We strongly recommend that you speak to Permit Solutions first to get the right information and avoid unnecessary delays or surprises.

What is the purpose of a building Permit?
Generally, a building permit is required for all structural works and helps make sure they are safe, functional and carried out by qualified professionals.
To get a building permit you will need to engage a private building surveyor Permit Solutions can put you in contact with the right surveyor for your situation.

What is the purpose of a Planning Permit?
A planning permit allows a certain use, or development, or both on the land. To get a planning permit you need to lodge a planning application permit form with the relevant council.
Permit Solutions have extensive experience with rules applying to land use in council zones and can advise on any Building permit zoning issues and facilitate your approval with town planners.

Building permit denied?

Council said no? Building permit applications can be rejected due to common errors, this creates frustrating delays and additional costs. At Permit Solutions, we facilitate the approval process, helping you avoid these setbacks. Below are the some reasons for permit rejections and how you can ensure your application is approved.

Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation
Thoroughly check the required documents before submission. Ensure they are correctly filled out and accurate. Permit solutions can put you in contact with reputable building surveyors to review your application before submission.

Non-Compliance with Building Codes and Regulations
Permit Solutions can advise you on latest Building Code of Australia and relevant local council regulations. Consulting experienced professionals during the design and planning phase to ensure your project meets all requirements.

Zoning and Land Use regulations
What type of structures can be built on properties depends on zoning regulations, If your project doesn’t align with zoning laws, your permit may be denied. Permit Solutions experience and understanding of this process means we are well-positioned to represent you and align with the policy of State and local government to achieve the best chance for your vision and objectives through a rezoning process and seek pre-approval or advice from the Local Council and Town Planners.

Structural and Safety Issues
ensure your project meets safety standards, particularly in fire safety, load-bearing capacities, and structural integrity. Permit solutions can have a certified engineer review your structural plans and supply the proper documentation of fire safety and other essential building measures.

Errors in Site and Floor Plans
Ensure floor and site plans are prepared by a qualified architect or draftsman with Clearly labeled measurements, boundaries, and setbacks.

Town planning permit denied?

Council and town planning said no? We see many town planning permit zoning issues and delays, due to poor application planning. It can seem like a severe blow with all the time and money spent. This is why we strongly advise talking to Permit Solutions to investigate and facilitate the pre-approval of your planning permit application. However, if you have had your planning application refused it does not necessarily mean the end of your project or development, there is still the possibility to get the approval you want by taking your case to VCAT. In most cases you have 60 days from the date the refusal was issued to lodge an appeal. From here Permit Solutions can facilitate communications with council planning officers and any other objectors.

Amending plans is a very useful tactic as it essentially gives you a second chance to respond to any concerns that the council and objectors have highlighted and minimise any issues that council might have with the development. This gives you a much stronger case with a high percent of our clients choosing to amend their plans before the hearing which has given them the positive outcome they wanted. Similarly there have been incidences where council have reversed their decision and approved the application before the VCAT hearing based on the amended plans.

In conclusion we recommend Talking to Permit Solutions prior to your initial application, and avoid any town planning permit application mistakes. We can help lower your town planning permit cost by advising you through the process, and any planning permit zoning issues that we may find. We have over twenty years experience in gaining a successful outcome for our clients. That includes facilitation, trouble shooting and negotiation. We work with a broad range of professional associates as necessary for any particular project.