Planning Permit vs Building Permit: What’s the Difference? 

If you are planning to do any type of construction, whether it is for your home or for a commercial building, you will need to obtain the proper permits. Depending on the scope of the project, you may need to apply for a planning permit and/or a building permit. But what is the difference between these two types of permits? In this blog post, we will break down the differences between planning permit vs building permit so that you can better understand which one you need for your project. 

What is the key difference between planning permit vs building permit? 

A building permit, on the other hand, is required for the construction of any new building or the alteration of any existing building. It ensures the building work is undertaken in accordance with the approved plans, specifications, and other relevant documentation. The building permit is issued by a registered building surveyor. 

In most cases, you will need both a planning permit and a building permit to undertake any development. If a planning permit is required, it must be approved and issued before any building permit is approved. 

Which permit do I need for my project? 

You will need a planning permit for any proposed activity that is likely to change the use or appearance of land or buildings. The types of activities that require a Planning Permit are remarkably diverse and include, but are not limited to: 

• The construction of a new building 
• An extension or alteration to an existing building
• Renovation with major exterior changes 
• Demolition of a building, such as a heritage overlay 
• Changing the use of a building or land 
• Subdividing land 
• Multi-units development such as townhouse development or dual occupancy 

A building permit is required for most building work, including: 

• Most new buildings 
• Additions and alterations to existing buildings, such as an extension or deck 
• Demolishing all or part of a building. 

Construction or demolition of a freestanding Class 10a building may be A building permit may be exempt from requiring a building permit, according to Victoria Building Authority (VBA)’s resources. 

What if my permit application is rejected? 

If your application for a planning permit is rejected, it may be because the proposed development does not comply with the relevant planning requirements. These requirements are set by the local council under the local planning scheme and include things like height limits, setbacks from boundaries, minimum garden area, and maximum floor space ratios. You can appeal the decision if you think the planning requirements are unreasonable or if you have added information that was not considered by the council when they made their decision. 

If your building permit application is rejected, you can either resubmit it with the required modifications or appeal the decision. The appeals process varies from state to state, but usually involves a hearing in front of a panel of experts. If you decide to resubmit your application, be sure to address the areas that were cited in the rejection notice. 

How to speed up the permit application process and avoid rejection? 

Before applying for a planning permit, it is important to have a a meeting with the council. This can help you understand whether they are in favour of your plans as well as make them aware of any communities that may be affected by your proposals and why they should consider these concerns before granting the permit. 

At SQM Architects, we represent our client throughout this entire process so that we have the best interests at heart when dealing with local councils. We then proceed to prepare documents required for the application including the proposed design, planning report, shadow diagrams and other relevant documentation. 

For building permit applications, a submission of at least three copies of drawings, specifications and allotment plans along with the completed application form and other prescribed information is required. We prepare high quality working drawings and specifications as part of the service agreement. We ensure that the application includes all the information required for the application and therefore reduce the process time. The working drawings can also be presented to builders for construction quotations. 

If you have any questions, contact us today for free consultation.