What happens if I do not obtain a building permit?

• You cannot commence some types of construction without a permit or approval from your local council.
• You risk being fined on the spot, penalised, and even taken to court by your local council if you do.
• State and federal laws also apply and you can receive legal and financial penalties that are far greater than local council penalties.
• It is important to contact your local council during the planning stage to work out what permits and approvals you require.
• If your application for a permit is refused you can also ask them to explain why you did not obtain a building permit and try to negotiate a compromise, address their concerns or come to some alternative arrangement.
• You can use our Fixed Fee Quote service to call for tenders from experienced lawyers who may be able to assist you with this.