Your Local Council – what's the deal with planning permission?
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If you're considering home improvements a question most people will need to ask is 'Do I need planning permission?'. Many alterations and home improvements will need council approval - so if you ignore the council you could be forced to return the building to it's former state at great expense or pay a fine.
Rules and regulations differ from council to council
When you're planning - check with your council. You can do this before you hire your builder or renovation expert, or ask your business to advise you on the permission processes. Remember that if your home is heritage listed there are stricter rules about how you can change the facade of the building and possibly other areas.
Basic guidelines - what normally needs permission?
- Structural work
- Anything that affects the appearance of your home (including things around your home like carports and fences)
- Swimming pools
- Changes to boundaries
- Anything that will affect your or your neighbour's views or privacy
- Tree removal (sometimes)
- Demolition
- Deep excavation
Construction certificates and development applications
Consulting a Planning Advisor of Officer at your local council before you make any application or plans is a good idea, as they'll talk you through the requirements and communicate any specific council policies applicable. For example, some councils or council regions may have policies that govern the colour of roofs, the height of fences or the colour of your exterior. Communities - especially gated communities - often have a specific set of design principles in mind when they are designed, and these principles must also be adhered to.
Making an application
Your application will often require drawings of your proposed changes, prepared by a draftsman or builder, so make sure you have those for your application. When you submit your applications, keep a copy for yourself too. Pay any fees in a timely manner as this will prevent any delays due to non-payment.
Your builder or renovator will often manage this process for you - you'll pay a little extra for the service but it's a lot less hassle.
Find a builder or renovator by posting a job today, or search through our Directory of quality businesses here.
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