A building permit is a document that certifies that a building surveyor has approved documentation for proposed building work prior to its commencement.
Undertaking building work without obtaining the necessary building permit is a serious offence and can result in severe penalties.
Building permits are a system of control on construction of building work. They establish, maintain and improve standards for the construction and maintenance of buildings. Permits also enhance the amenity of buildings and protect people using them.
Most councils employ building surveyors and issue building permits.
Victoria
In Victoria the Victorian Building Act 1993 and Victorian Building Regulations 2006 legislate that most building work is subject to the issuing of a building permit. This includes most alterations, demolitions and removals.