Building Permit Process

A building permit is required before the commencement of building works which includes new buildings and demolition and/or alteration to an existing building. A building permit is written approval from a registered building surveyor certifying that your plans comply with the Building Regulations. 

A building permit is generally required for:

  • External work to your building including extensions, verandas, garages and second storeys
  • External work to your building that requires windows or walls to be moved or altered
  • Any new building
  • Demolition of a building
  • Change of use of a building eg: from warehouse to dwelling, or dwelling to rooming house
  • A fence
  • Construction of a swimming pool or spa
  • Minor structures eg. carports, roller doors etc.
  • The installation, alteration or removal of any Essential Services

You can contact Council for advice on whether a building permit is required.

Always check that a permit has been issued before any work commences. It is important to remember that it is the owner's responsibility to get the required permits.

Private Building Surveyor Requirements

All Private Building Surveyors must submit to Council documentation at various stages of a Building permit. This includes:

  • Notification accepted a job (S80)
  • Issuance of a Building Permit and plans (S30) which includes a lodgement fee
  • Documentation regarding inspections and final documentation at the completion of a job

Private Building Surveyors can submit all relevant documentation to pbsdoc@whitehorse.vic.gov.au  

Council does not paper or pdf accept credit card payment forms for this service. An invoice will be issued with payment details and a reference number. This can then be paid online via a secure payment gateway.