Building Permit
Why Do I Need A Building Permit?
The building permit process requires detailed documentation (plans) demonstrating that proposed work will comply with the Act, Regulations, and NCC, along with staged inspections and a final sign-off. Some minor building work is exempt from this requirement under Schedule 3 of the Regulations, but for most projects, engaging a building surveyor early is the safest way to confirm what's required before work begins.
How Can Stokes Safety Help?
We take a proactive approach, working collaboratively with architects, draftspeople, engineers, and other design team members so a project can meet all legislative requirements without unnecessary friction. If you have a project still in development, we recommend contacting us before submitting to town planning; having a building surveyor engaged at this early stage helps the design team understand whether a design is achievable under current regulations.
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Working with Stokes Safety means your project moves through the building permit process with fewer surprises: a clear scope of required documentation up front, staged inspections completed as construction progresses, and a final Occupancy Permit or Certificate of Final Inspection issued once the work is verified safe and compliant.
Taking The First Step
If you are planning a project in Victoria and need a building permit, or want early advice on whether your design is achievable, contact Stokes Safety today. You can also start the process now using our online Building Permit application form.
When Do I Need A Building Permit or to Engage a Building Surveyor?
Buildings must be constructed to meet minimum standards of safety and amenity as set out in the Building Act 1993 (the Act), the Building Regulations 2018 (the Regulations) and National Construction Code (NCC). The building permit process is intended to ensure that the building work when constructed complies with the Act, Regulations, NCC and relevant Australian Standards and the building or structure is suitable to occupy or use. The building permit is required to include detailed documentation which demonstrates that the building work will comply with the Act, Regulations and NCC. The building permit process also requires inspections of the work and the issuing of an occupancy permit or certificate of final inspection. Some building work is of such a minor nature that the protections and advantages that a building permit provides are not necessary or will not be achieved. Schedule 3 of the Regulations sets out the building work that is exempt from the requirement for a building or occupancy permit. (Note: Extract from Victorian Building Authority Practice Note 32-2018
Getting Started
To assess a project and issue a building permit, we typically ask for the following initial documents:
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Building Permit Application Form, a PDF Version can be emailed upon request or downloaded below.
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Letter of Appointment (to be signed by owner/s); or Owner Builders Consent Letter, A PDF template letter can be emailed upon request.
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Evidence of Ownership
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Certificate of Title and associated Block Plan/s where external works are
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proposed
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Re-establishment survey plan prepared by licensed land surveyors where external works are proposed.
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Preliminary Architectural Plans and Specifications prepared by a registered draftsperson or architect
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Services Plans and Specifications prepared by a registered practitioner
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Structural Plan, Soil Report, Structural Certification where works involve structural works prepared by a registered practitioner.
Once these initial documents are provided, we can advise on next steps and help the design team maintain both safety and compliance while keeping the client's needs and timeline front of mind. If you would like to discuss your building safety and compliance needs, or you are seeking a building permit, please contact us today.