Building Approval - Australian Capital Territory

Description

You will need this approval if you intend to undertake building or development work in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). Building or development work includes any construction, alteration, removal or demolition of any new or old building or structure.

Building approval is needed for most developments to ensure the building complies with building laws and standards. When granted this approval, the appointed building certifier completes the building commencement notice and work can begin.

Please be aware that:

  • you will need this approval prior to the commencement of construction
  • the approval only relates to building work shown on the approved plans under the approval
  • you should obtain a development approval, if needed, before obtaining this approval
  • exemptions to this approval exist for minor structures and may depend on such things as size, nature and type of work proposed.

Service type

Licence

A licence defines the need to obtain recognition / certification and registration to undertake a certain business activity.

Eligibility requirements

Please contact the agency to identify any eligibility requirements.

Fees

Fees Details for this service in table format.

Task Type Business Structure Description
Apply Application All

Fees will change depending on your circumstances. Please contact the agency for more information.

Forms

Act(s) name

Building Act 2004 Australian Capital Territory

Regulation(s) name

Building (General) Regulation 2008 Australian Capital Territory

Application process

Apply

In addition to your completed application form you must:

  • provide an estimate of the cost of the proposed building work
  • provide one electronic copy of the plans and, if required by the certifier, one paper copy
  • provide management plans for public safety if the project is carried out on, at or near a public space
  • provide a waste management plan if the related works involve the demolition or alteration (other than class 1, 2 or 10a building) of a building
  • provide an asbestos removal control plan if the property was erected before 1985 or if it is a class 1, 2 3 or 4 building
  • provide any associated development approvals and exemption notices
  • appoint a licensed building surveyor as your certifier
  • employ a licensed builder (or become licensed as an owner-builder)
  • pay the prescribed fees.

Additional information

Please note that labourers and project builders need to undertake an approved course in asbestos awareness.

Administering agency

Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate

Planning

Contact details

Contact Email, Phone and Address Details for this service in simple two column table format, header then data.