Planning or building permit. What's the difference?

house frame

Planning

Planning considers the way land is used and developed, and how this impacts the character and liveability of an area.

A Planning Permit is a legal document that gives you permission to use or develop land in a certain way. It usually includes conditions and approved plans which must be complied.

Building

Building is concerned with safe construction practices and considers whether the construction work and new uses conform to building regulations, the Building Code of Australia, and relevant Australian standards.

A Building Permit is a legal document, issued before construction commences, to make sure the building meets the minimum requirements for the health, safety and liveability of occupants and the public.

Building Permits are issued by a Private Building Surveyor.

A Building Permit is required for:

  • most building works,
  • for the change of use of a building (e.g. dwelling to a boarding house, shop to an office etc.),
  • for new buildings and structures, (e.g. fence, pergola)
  • dwelling alterations.

If you need both permits, you must get the planning permit before applying for a building permit.

An approved planning permit does not mean you can start construction. You need an approved building permit to start construction.

Your Building Surveyor will then inspect the project at different stages to ensure it meets the permit regulations.

Learn more about building

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