Council development officer Laurie Collins said unapproved building projects have become a major concern for local councils.

“The erection of a building of any size on land in any council area requires Council approval,” Mr Collins said. “This applies to any land irrespective of wether it is within a township or in a rural area.”

Council approval means development approval under the provisions of the Building Code of Australia and approval under the provisions of the respective authorised Council Development Plan.

“There are times when certain areas or building types may be exempt from some requirements,” Mr Collins said.

When planning a building or renovation, the first step is to consult your local council’s development officer, according to Mr Collins.

“Approval for building work is necessary to see that the structure as shown on the plans and details meets the requirements of the Building Code of Australia,” he said.

“We need to ensure all buildings such as domestic garages or large storage sheds are compliant with the Code and are safe for people and equipment to be in.

“This also ensures that your liability risks for any incident involving the building is removed or at the least minimised.”

Mr Collins said obtaining approval from Council also avoids the risk of being prosecuted for illegal building work and having a court order issued requiring the building to be removed from the land.

“There are quite large fines the court can impose on offenders who are prosecuted under the Development Act.”

To find out more information contact development officer Laurie Collins on 0428 882 976.