Prosecution on illegal building

Published on 13 December 2024

Blackwood street sign

A property owner in Blackwood has been ordered to pay $2000 and remove an illegal building by 10 February 2025 after Council prosecuted the owner in the Bacchus Marsh Magistrates Court.

The matter, which has been previously adjourned, finished early December, with the Magistrate imposing the above penalty.

Council was alerted to the construction and occupation of an outbuilding in January 2024. An investigation confirmed the building had been constructed without any building approval and failed to meet the requirements of the National Construction Code.

Moorabool Mayor Cr Paul Tatchell said residents should be aware of cases like this and what the outcome can be for illegal buildings on properties.

“This action highlights the important work being undertaken by Council to ensure resident safety. Unsafe buildings or building work may pose a significant risk to the community or impact their or their neighbour’s amenity” Cr Tatchell said.

Residents are reminded when undertaking any building work on their property to find out whether the project requires a planning permit, a building permit, or both.

Having a building permit provides residents with protection by ensuring:

  • the building practitioners working on the project are registered and carry the required insurance.
  • adequate documentation is prepared so the construction can be carried out correctly and according to building legislation.
  • key stages of the work are independently inspected.
  • the building is suitable for occupation.

For more information on building requirements go to: moorabool.vic.gov.au/building-and-planning

 

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