Building permits are documents certifying that a proposed building complies with the relevant building regulations. A building permit is a written approval by a private or municipal building surveyor. It allows the building work to be undertaken according to the approved plans, specifications and other relevant documentation.
Having a building permit provides you with protection by ensuring:
- The building practitioners working on your project are registered and carry the required insurance
- Adequate documentation is prepared so the construction can be carried out correctly and according to building legislation
- Key stages of the work are independently inspected
- Your building is suitable for occupation.
A building permit will specify that either an occupancy permit or a certificate of final inspection is required on completion of the building work.
Not all building projects require a building permit. Possible exemptions may include:
- Some minor alterations or demolitions
- Pergolas associated with houses
- Some garden sheds with a floor area less than 10m2
- Repair work for maintenance purposes.
Source: Victorian Building Authority