Planning permits and building permits in Victoria

A planning permit should not be confused with a building permit.

Planning permits relate to the use and development of land under the Planning and Environment Act 1987. They are usually issued by Local Councils under the local planning scheme.

Building Permits

A building permit generally relates only to the construction aspects of a particular building or development. A registered building surveyor, your local council or the Victorian Building Authority can advise whether your home renovation or extension needs a building permit.

A building permit shows your approved plans and specifications comply with building regulations, and allows building work to start. A building permit can be obtained from a registered private or local council building surveyor, and they will advise if either an occupancy permit or a certificate of final inspection is required on completion of the building work.

The Building Act 1993 (the Act) and Building Regulations 2006 (the Regulations) legislate that all building work is subject to the issuing of a building permit, unless an exemption exists for the proposed work.

A permit is not always required to use or develop land or do construction, but it is your responsibility to find out if you need either or both permits. One way you can find out is to contact your local council.

Note: if both are required, you need to get your planning permit first as the building permit must comply with any endorsed plans or conditions on the planning permit.

 Derived from Using Victoria’s Planning System by the State of Victoria and Building plans and permits by Consumer Affairs Victoria