Report and Consent is the process of seeking approval from Council to proceed with construction for aspects of your building design that do not meet standard requirements under the Building Regulations 2018.
Design aspects that are outside of the regulations may affect community assets, infrastructure, or your neighbour's or community amenity. It's for this reason that you must apply for a report and consent.
When is a Report and Consent required?
You must obtain a Report and Consent if your building project does not meet the requirements of the Building Regulations 2018.
Your appointed building surveyor cannot issue a building permit unless they are satisfied that any required Report and Consent has been obtained. The alternative is to alter your design so it meets the regulations.
If you need a Report and Consent please be aware it is an application process, and approval is not guaranteed.
Fees
All fees can be found on our Building Fees and Charges page.
How to apply
To apply for Council's consent to request a variation to part 5 of the Building Regulations 2018, you will need to prepare and provide the following:
- A completed application form
- Certificate of Title and Title Plan
- Clear, legible drawings, including a site plan, floor plans, and elevations. The drawings must clearly show the areas of non-compliance with the Building Regulations
- A written submission describing the proposal that includes the justification for the design under the Minister's Guidelines (Refer to MG 12 - Siting and Design of Single Dwellings)
If your matter relates to Report and Consent for building over an easement (eg stormwater drain), please visit our Build over an Easement page.
For more information relating to this variation or procedures, please contact Council’s Building team on 5366 7100.
What happens next?
Once your application is received, the Building team will take into consideration the effect the proposed design might have on adjoining properties.
Your neighbours will have the opportunity to provide feedback, and comments from adjoining property owners may affect our decision to approve or refuse the application. We allow at least two weeks for an adjoining owner to review plans held with Council.
FAQs
How long will my application take to process?
Applications take up to four weeks to process. You will be formally advised of our decision on the application.
We may take longer than four weeks if:
- the information lodged is incomplete, and more information or clarification is required
- the application needs to be referred to a reporting authority
- submissions are sought from adjoining owners.
The process time for an application is guided by legislation under the current Building Act.
Can I appeal the decision?
If we decide to refuse your application, you have the right to appeal the decision to the Building Appeals Board.