Building Permit Information

A building permit is generally required for all forms of building work.

If you plan to do any building work, you should check with Council first to find out if you need a building permit. A building permit ensures your building project is built by registered and insured builders, has the correct documentation, is inspected at different stages of work and is independently assessed as suitable for occupation upon completion. 

Most building works require a building permit irrespective of their size and cost. Please contact Council to discuss your building proposal. You can also view the Victorian Building Authority's general guide as to when a building permit is required - click here.

A building permit is a legal document which gives official approval for any construction, demolition or remodelling works undertaken by yourself or a licensed builder. A building permit will be required when you are:

  • Building additions or alterations to existing structures;
  • Constructing a swimming pool;
  • Building a new fence;
  • Demolishing an existing structure;
  • Building a new house or structure, and;
  • Erecting signage.

PLEASE NOTE: In addition to a building permit, you may require a planning permit for your project. These two permits are not to be confused – a building permit deals with the method of construction of a building, while a planning permit relates to the use or development of a particular piece of land. Check out our planning section for more information or contact the planning department.

While we can provide general information depending on your project, please submit a Planning and Building Request form so that we can best advise you on how to move forward.

Planning and Building Request Form

Contructing a Fence

There are planning and building regulations which control the building and management of fences, including their height and building material.
You can apply for report and consent(PDF, 664KB) exemption  if your proposed fence does not comply with the building regulation requirements. This application will be assessed with the aim of ensuring that the fence design respects the existing or preferred character of the neighbourhood and is consistent with the specifications of existing fences on nearby allotments.

Further information about fences

If you are and a neighouring property are unable to resolve a fencing dispute, the Dispute Settlement Centre Victoria  can give legal advice on the Fence Act and also assist with mediation between two or more parties when matters cannot be resolved. Disputes involving dividing fences are the most common disputes dealt with at the Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria.

Owner / Builder Information

An owner can carry out building work that is involved in the construction, alteration or renovation of an existing building as an owner/builder if they are not a registered builder. An owner/builder is defined as someone who is not in the business of building and who constructs or renovates a domestic building on his or her own land.

Owner/builders must obtain a Certificate of Consent from the Building Practitioners Board in order to obtain a building permit for works valued over $16,000. This Certificate of Consent is an individual’s written approval to act as an owner/builder on their own land in Victoria. A building permit cannot be issued until the Certificate of Consent has been lodged with the Building Surveyor.

For more information, visit the Victorian Building Authority’s website.

Farm Sheds & Buildings

All farm buildings or sheds require a building permit. Some farm sheds and buildings also require a planning permit

Farmers are encouraged to contact Council on (03) 5391 4444 or email info@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au to discuss their plans for new buildings on farm land prior to submitting an application.

 

  

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