Council is launching a new community awareness campaign to help residents understand the difference between planning and building permits before starting work on their property.
In Summary
- Council is launching a four-week awareness campaign from 2 to 30 March 2026 to help residents understand the difference between planning and building permits.
- A planning permit relates to how land is used and developed, while a building permit ensures construction work meets safety and structural standards.
- Some projects may require one permit or both, and checking requirements before work begins can help avoid delays, additional costs and compliance issues.
- A dedicated webpage has been developed to provide clear information, examples and application guidance, available by clicking here.
Planning and building permits are different and they serve different purposes.
A planning permit considers how land is used and developed. It looks at zoning land use, neighbourhood character heritage and environmental impacts. Examples include changing the use of a property, starting a business from home, subdividing land or developing rural land.
A building permit allows construction work to begin and ensures the work meets safety and structural standards under building regulations. Examples include building or extending a home, constructing a carport or shed, farm shed, installing a pool or spa, and certain types of fencing.
The campaign encourages residents to check which permit they may need before building, renovating or changing how land is used within the municipality.
Some projects require one permit, while others may require both. Understanding which permit applies before work begins can help avoid delays, redesign costs and compliance issues.
Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali said most residents want to get their project right but are often unsure which permit applies.
"Planning and building permits are not the same and they exist for different reasons. Knowing the difference before you begin is what helps avoid problems later," he said.
"This campaign is about giving our community clear and simple information so they can make informed decisions before work begins."
Council regularly receives incomplete applications or enquiries after building work has already begun, which can lead to delays and added costs.
Council's Director Sustainable Development Geraldine Christou said many permit problems start with a simple question that gets asked too late.
"Most projects begin with good intentions, but people can get caught out because planning and building permits do different jobs. By checking early you can avoid delays, extra costs and rework," she said.
"We have made it easier to find the right information on Council's website before the work begins. Permits help make sure buildings are safe, neighbourhood character is respected and long-term property value is protected."
The four-week campaign will run from Monday 2 to Monday 30 March 2026 across a mix of local advertising, digital platforms and Council communication channels to reach residents.
A dedicated webpage has been developed with clear explanations, common project examples, links to resources and information and how to lodge an application online.
Residents can visit our Building and Planning webpage here to find out which permit may apply to their project before work begins.
