Understanding planning permits for commercial properties

When planning the design and construction of new business premises, official procedures must be followed. You may need both building and planning permits in order to get your premises off the ground (so to speak). 

"The planning stage is a really significant component of the application," explains Greg Edwards from Ecotec Building Group. "You have to research local council requirements on the aesthetics of a building, so that it blends in with the surrounding environment."

Applying for a planning permit

Generally, the council will ask you to produce draft drawings of the proposed construction, and you may be required to attend a number of review meetings.

"They'll look at what's proposed, make suggestions for changes, and once they agree on an acceptable design the project is advertised to all the people in the surrounding area," says Greg.

People occupying other premises in the vicinity have the option to protest the construction; if they do, you can appeal to VCAT (Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal), or the equivalent in other states.

"It's quite a good option in terms of being able to push a project forward, as VCAT are more sympathetic towards developers and people just trying to get on with business," says Greg.

Applying for a building permit

Once the planning permit has been obtained, the next step is to apply for a building permit. This requires being able to show a full set of working drawings that detail the structural components of a building and how it's going to be built. 

The building permit differs from the planning permit in that it's more focused on the technical side of the process. The council will need to ensure you're building in accordance with the relevant Australian codes and standards, and that you have the correct engineering in place.

At this stage you might also be asked to include information about things like energy ratings. 

Obtaining the right permits: the benefits

• Firstly, having a building and planning permit is the law. You leave yourself open to prosecution if you don't apply for the relevant permits in areas where they're required.
• The new building will be safe for you and your employees.
• The advice from experts that you obtain during the application process could be vital in saving you money on things like energy usage.
• The good reputation of your business will be ensured.
• It will help to establish positive relationships with other building occupiers in the area.

Your mission: permission

If you're thinking about building new premises or altering existing ones, it's vital to look into what you need in the way of building and planning permits.

To find out what's required to get your ideal office premises built, contact a building company today.