A building permit must be obtained for building and demolition work. This permit ensures and shows that your project and the work being undertaken are compliant with the relevant building codes and legislation. Therefore, it is imperative that you understand building permit requirements in Victoria if you are planning on undertaking a project. The requirements for a building permit may differ from state to state, as well as between local councils.
When is a building permit required in Victoria?
In Victoria, all building work requires a building permit, unless they are exempt under the relevant legislation. The Building Act 1993 (the Act) and Building Regulations 2018 (the Regulations) determine the requirements for all building work and associated undertakings.
Buildings and Alterations
Most types of work cannot be carried out unless a building permit has been issued. If works or alterations are carried out without a permit, fines may be imposed. However, some activities are eligible for an exemption. The information provided in this article is general in nature and is not advice. Therefore, before beginning any work, you should always seek out accurate information from a building surveyor or your local council.
Commercial Fit outs
A building permit is required for almost all commercial fit out work. This is because commercial buildings contain Essential Safety Measures. Alterations which are in relation to, or have an adverse effect on the Essential Safety Measures of the building require a building permit. Essential Safety Measures include things such as building elements, services and characteristics such as sprinklers, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, exit signs, exits, doors, paths of travel, lining and covering materials etc. Therefore almost any work in a commercial building is likely to trigger the need for a building permit, since almost any work can be considered as being in relation to an Essential Safety Measure.
Any work in relation to an Essential Safety Measure requires a building permit. In addition, any work that will have an adverse affect on an Essential Safety Measure also requires a building permit. It is also important to note that it does not take much to adversely affect Essential Safety Measures. For example, installing some non-structural walls will likely have an adverse effect on many Essential Safety Measures such as the paths of travel and fire extinguisher coverage. Installing new carpets, vinyl or installing any combustible wall linings or coverings such as timber or laminate could also have an adverse effect on the Essential Safety Measures of the building as they could be more combustible in nature thereby triggering the need for a building permit.
Construction of a Pergola
A pergola is one type of project that may be eligible for an exemption. The exemption does, however, depend on the style, size and positioning of the pergola. Therefore, do obtain expert advice before any construction work takes place.
Repair, renewal or maintenance
Certain minor repairs, renewals, or maintenance works may be exempt. However, there are a number of stipulations for the type of repairs that are exempt. It is imperative that you seek out the correct information from a building surveyor before beginning any repair work.
Alterations to a building
Generally, alterations to a building do require a building permit. However, under certain circumstances where a series of criteria are met, the alterations may be exempt. Therefore, expert advice from a building surveyor in your local council is a must.
Construction of a freestanding building
Constructing a freestanding building that falls under Class 10a, could qualify for an exemption if the project fits the requirements of the exemption. This does depend on a number of factors, including floor area and materials used, so obtaining expert advice from your municipal building surveyor before work commences is absolutely essential.
Demolition of a freestanding building
Demolishing a freestanding building that is deemed a Class 10 building may be exempt from a permit. These types of buildings include sheds and carports, and whether they are actually exempt depends on a number of factors. Before you start demolishing a freestanding building, you must obtain accurate information from an authoritative source.
Class 10b structures constructed for displaying a sign
Generally, these types of structures may not require a building permit. However, as with other exemptions, there are strict requirements for what does and does not qualify for an exemption. These must be adhered to and you must be properly informed before work begins.
Real estate signs
Many real estate signs that are self-supporting may fall under the criteria of a temporary structure. Therefore, these particular structures could be exempt from a permit. However, this does not mean that all temporary structures are exempt. Again, it is absolutely imperative that the correct information is sought from the right body before any work begins.
What is building work?
The term ‘building work’ is defined by The Building Act 1993 as ‘work for or in connection with the construction, demolition, or removal of a building’. It is important to understand this definition when considering building permit requirements in Victoria.
Common Types of Building Works
Common types of building works may include:
- Additions and alterations
- Carports and garages
- Decks
- Retaining walls
- Roofing
- Verandahs
- Windows.
Your local council or your building surveyor will be able to provide you with clarification when it comes to building works, and where your project sits.
What do you require for a building permit in Victoria?
Your building surveyor will require your building permit application to be submitted with the correct documentation before the permit can be issued.
Drawings and specifications
You will be required to submit multiple copies of your drawings, specifications, and allotment plans where applicable, along with a completed application form and the relevant fee. If you require clarification, your building surveyor can provide further information to ensure the application is submitted correctly the first time.
You may require a planning permit first
Some projects require a planning permit before a building permit can be issued. To find out if this is the case for your building work, discuss with your building surveyor. At Fitout Permits, our team of licensed, experienced surveyors is ready to help you understand building permit requirements in Victoria, along with your obligations.
