To make things easier, we have identified three main stages in the Building process:
- Planning approval;
- Determining the Category of Building and Demolition Work and Issuance of a Certificate of Likely Compliance;
- Building Approval.
Although there could be some exemptions based on the type of work you intend to carry out, it is still important to follow this process and identify whether you require any approvals or permits.
Stage 1: Planning Approval
Planning approvals are required for the use of land in accordance with the Tasmanian Planning Scheme. A Planning Permit authorises the use and development of land. This includes subdividing land, constructing a house, tree removal, or operating a business. A Planning Permit assesses proposals against the Tasmanian Planning Scheme.
Before starting any work, make an appointment with one of our Planners to check if a Planning Permit is required.
Stage 2: Determining the category of building and demolition work and issuance of a certificate of likely compliance
The Building Act 2016 takes a risk-based approach to building approvals. Some low-risk and medium-risk building, and demolition work can be done without seeking a building permit from the Council.
You will need a private Building Surveyor to provide the necessary building approvals. If you require a permit from the Council, the Building Surveyor will make this application for you.
A Building Surveyor is a licensed professional responsible for ensuring that buildings are safe, accessible, and energy efficient. They play a crucial role in the design, planning, and functionality of buildings, and work alongside other professionals such as engineers, building designers, and builders to ensure compliance with the standards and processes set out in the Building Act 2016 and its regulations. The Building Surveyor’s involvement lasts for the duration of the building project.
A Building Surveyor will issue a ‘Certificate of Likely Compliance’, which will indicate that the proposed work is likely to comply with the appropriate legislation and the National Construction Code (NCC). The ‘Certificate of Likely Compliance’ from the Building Surveyor will stipulate any relevant conditions that may apply to the building work, as well as nominate the required inspections to be undertaken.
The building permit approval application is then lodged with the Council and is assessed and checked for compliance. If compliant, a Building Permit will be issued. A Building Permit is valid for two years from the date of issue, and building work must commence within 12 months of the date of issue. The builder is required to lodge a Building Start Work Notice to the Building Surveyor before any work can commence.
Stage 3: Building Approval
The building approval process varies depending on the category of building and demolition work:
- Permit building work: High-risk building work requires a permit issued by the Council. This involves a formal assessment process by the Permit Authority (Council) and the Building Surveyor.
- Notifiable Building Work: Medium-risk work doesn’t require a Building Permit but still requires oversight by a Building Surveyor. The surveyor will assess the work for compliance and issue a Certificate of Likely Compliance.
- Low-risk building work: This category includes minor work that can be done without a permit or the involvement of a Building Surveyor.
Please note that exemptions may apply within each stage, but it’s essential to check the specific permits and approvals required for your project.
Before starting any work, make an appointment with our Building Permit Officer to check if building approval is required, or contact an accredited Building Surveyor.
To find listings of licensed tradespersons, including Building Surveyors, please visit the Tasmanian Government’s Consumer, Building and Occupational Services website (link below).