Do you need building approval for this job?
For sole traders and small firms scoping a job. Covers when building work needs a permit, when it's exempt, and what the licensed trades certify themselves.
Sound familiar?
- “You're not sure if this job needs a permit or you can just crack on.”
- “The client swears 'you don't need approval for that' — but it's your licence on the line.”
- “You don't know where the building permit stops and the sparky's certificate starts.”
What this tool does
Tells you, by job type, whether the work typically needs building approval (a permit plus a certifier), is usually exempt, or is handled through licensed-trade certification instead. It's orientation — your certifier or council has the final say.
General guidance only — building-approval rules and exemptions vary by state and council. Always confirm with your private certifier or council before starting.
Step 1 — What work are you doing?
How building approval works in Australia
- Check whether you also need planning approval (a DA or CDC) — that's separate from building approval.
- Engage a registered building surveyor / private certifier (or your council) to assess the plans against the NCC and issue the building permit / construction certificate.
- Book the mandatory inspections as the job progresses, and get the occupation certificate / occupancy permit signed off at the end.
What the law actually says
- •Building work is assessed against the National Construction Code and signed off by a registered building surveyor / private certifier (or the council), with mandatory inspections.
- •Electrical, plumbing and gas work isn't building-permit work — it must be done by the licensed trade and certified to the relevant standard.
- •Guidance only — exemptions and thresholds vary by state and council, so confirm before you start.