Do I need a planning permit or a building permit?

Do I need a permit?

Use our interactive map below to find out if your renovation, new building or other work on your property requires a permit.

Simply rotate the house either by dragging, or using the arrows and click on the symbols to read the details. You’ll see different projects around the house such as pergolas, decks and pools.

Sometimes the answer if you need a permit isn’t a simple one. If you’re still not sure, please or contact the Planning or Building team.
If you require assistance using our Greenlight Portal, please refer to the educational material here.

Once you have determined that you require a planning permit, start to prepare your planning permit application.

Residential Model

Commercial Model

Farming Model

Planning permits and building permits are different and are assessed by different teams at Council. You might need one or both depending on your proposal. |
Please read the information below to find out which permit you will need.

If you require both a planning and building permit, you must get an approved planning permit before applying for a building permit.
Regardless if you have an approved planning permit, you cannot start construction without a building permit.

Planning considers the way land is used and developed, and how this impacts the character and amenity (liveability) of the municipality.

Council’s Planning Scheme is what guides decision making and outlines objectives, policies and controls for the use, development and protection of land. Council assesses proposals for the land through planning permit regulatory process aligned with the planning scheme.

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 with.

Building focuses on safety during and after construction. This includes ensuring construction work and the completed work Building Code of Australia and relevant Australian standards.

A building permit is a legal document, issued before construction commences, to ensure the building meets the minimum requirements for the health, safety and amenity of occupants and the public.

Building permits are issued by building surveyors.

For further information regarding building, please visit our page here.