Our Ultimate Guide to Obtaining Building Permits in Adelaide

Even before you hire a home builder, you should get a permit to build. Getting one can feel like being stuck in traffic at high noon—a true test of one’s patience. From the wait time to the guidelines you have to memorize, the process can get on your nerves.

However, you do not have to do everything unprepared. We’re going to walk you through the process step by step!

What is a building permit?

A building permit is essentially a formal authorization granted by either a municipal or private building surveyor.

This approval gives the green light to start construction or renovation. The right home builders won’t start work unless you have this.

Why are building permits necessary in Adelaide?

Building permits are necessary in Adelaide to ensure that any proposed development is suitable for its location and adheres to safety and regulatory standards.

Whether the construction plan involves general building work, changing land use, or advertising, approval is important to validate the project’s legality.

Do you need permits for interior renovations in Adelaide?

Yes, several permits may be required for interior renovations in Adelaide. 

For starters, a Development Approval from the City Council is essential before undertaking activities such as demolishing, constructing, or changing the property’s use.

Additionally, alterations to listed heritage places, boundary adjustments, cutting of trees, or erecting signs will also require permission.

Homeowners, prior to the renovation stage, must also notify the City Council to obtain permits for activities occupying public space, such as mini-skip bins or building material deliveries.

What are projects in Adelaide that do not require permits?

Projects in Adelaide that typically do not require permits include installing or replacing garden sheds, fences, water tanks, and solar panels.

How to Obtain Building Permits in Adelaide

Step 1: Prepare your application

The first step in obtaining an Adelaide building permit involves preparing your application, which should clearly outline your proposed development.

What you have to outline depends on the complexity of the project, and the description must be clear so that relevant authorities can assess its suitability for the intended location.

Your application should generally include the site address, personal contact information, current and proposed land use, and estimated development cost. Floor plans, elevation drawings, and relevant reports may also be required.

Step 2: Seek professional assistance

Seeking professional assistance can streamline the complex process and ensure thorough preparation, potentially avoiding costly amendments later on or longer processing times.

Experts in this matter can help design your proposal, compile necessary documents, and act as your main contact throughout the assessment.

These professional services entail additional costs, but the benefits include higher-quality applications. You can hire accredited planning and building professionals in PlanSA’s register or other relevant professional directories.

Step 3: Lodge your request

Once your application is good to go, you must lodge it with the relevant authority to initiate the assessment. This can be done either online or offline.

Online submission can be conveniently done through PlanSA’s lodgement form, but you have to make an account to complete the process.

Alternatively, your application can be lodged directly with the local council or the State Planning Commission, either through postal mail, in-person delivery, or email to the specified address. The addresses can be found below.

• For postal lodges: State Planning Commission, GPO Box 1815, Adelaide, SA 5001
• For in-person lodges: Level 10, 83 Pirie Street, Adelaide

Step 4: Handle all the fees

Upon submission of your development application, the relevant authority will issue an invoice for the payable fees.

The said fees are not fixed and will be determined by factors like the type of development and assessment process. Additional costs may also arise, especially if further scrutiny or government agency advice is required. 

Payment methods include online transactions, postal mail, phone, or in-person payments, depending on the authority handling the application. For a detailed breakdown of the fees and where to pay them, contact the Planning Services at 1800 752 664.

Step 5: Wait for the Response

After paying all fees, the assessment process commences for your lodged application, so you have to wait for a response. 

The authority will keep you updated on its progress throughout the assessment. During this period, you might be required to provide more information, handle additional fees, or request time extensions.

Once the relevant authority completes the assessment, they will either grant or refuse approval for your development.