A planning permit is a legal document which is necessary for councils to ensure that their core land-use plan is maintained and potential land development adheres to local planning rules and regulations. Planning permits are not always needed, so property developers can save themselves time and energy by discussing the matter with the relevant council planning officer. Before you apply for a planning permit, there are a few things you need to know.
How Do I Know if I need a Planning Permit?
Planning permits are not essential in every circumstance. A few cases will define whether you need to apply for a planning permit or not ahead of discussing the matter with the local council. As your first step in the property development project, you have to refer to both state and local scheme maps. From these maps, you will see how land is zoned and what other details need to be noted and adhered to in the development process. It is vital to note that the requirements for a planning permit may vary from one council and state to another, but we have provided a rough guide.
You need a planning permit if
- you are starting a new business or expanding your business
- you are constructing, altering, renovating, or extending a building
- you are subdividing land
- you are building more than one dwelling on a property
- you are clearing native vegetation from land
- your house or building falls on a heritage site
- you want to display a sign
- you are changing the use of a property
- you are running a business from a residential premise
- you are applying for a liquor licence
What Information is Required When Applying?
Once you’ve figured out whether you need a permit or not, there are quite a few documents which your council will require in order to issue your planning permit. These documents may be adapted to individual councils’ needs, but here is a rough guide.
Planning permit application documents:
- The planning schemes
- A clear description of the land
- A certificate of title
- Property information certificates such as building permits which have been issued in the last ten years.
- Building plans
- A detailed description of the proposal
- The application must address the state and local land planning regulations
- Proof that the property or landowner has been notified of the development plans and the pending planning permit application
- Proof that the permit application fee has been paid
Is a Building Permit the Same as a Planning Permit?
Building and planning permits are not the same. A building permit refers to whether the building adheres to building regulations. A planning permit refers to whether the development is allowed to proceed based on land use and land planning regulations. Building permits are usually not needed for minor alterations, renovations, or maintenance.
The process of obtaining a planning permit may be demanding, but it is essential to avoid fines and penalties. It all starts with a careful examination of scheme maps. These maps are easily and quickly obtained using the Archistar property development platform.
