Where to start

Development approval (also known as planning approval) and building permits are two separate application processes that might be needed before a development and/or building project can commence.

Development includes: the erection, construction or demolition of any building or structure; erection, placement and display of advertisements or signs; building alterations or additions; excavation work; and establishing or changing the land use of a site.

In some cases, both development and building approvals will be required.  In those cases, development approval must be applied for and granted before a building permit can be applied for and issued.

The zoning of your property is the first check point, from there it can be determined if the building work or land use you propose is permitted and/or needs development approval; and what legislation and policies/guidelines apply to your property.