An Occupancy Permit (BA9) is required for all Class 2 to 9 buildings before a building can be occupied or used.
The following circumstances will require an occupancy permit:
• To occupy a completed new building or a new part of an existing building
• To occupy an incomplete building or part of a building on a temporary basis
• To modify a current occupancy permit for additional use of a building on a temporary basis
• To occupy a building or part of a building that has undergone a permanent change of use or classification
• To authorise and occupy an unauthorised building or an unauthorised part of a building
• To authorise a building with an existing approval with a new or replacement occupancy permit.
Completed new buildings
Occupancy permit applications for newly completed buildings must include:
• A Certificate of Construction Compliance (form BA17) signed by a registered private building surveyor
• Evidence of approval from relevant authorities, dependant on the building or structure
• A completed Notice and Request for Consent to Encroach or Adversely Affect form (BA20) and an unauthorised works form if applicable
Existing authorised occupied buildings
Occupancy permit applications for existing authorised buildings must include:
• A Certificate of Building Compliance (form BA18) signed by a registered private building surveyor confirming that the existing building has been inspected
• A completed Occupancy Permit Application Form (BA9) signed by the owner/occupier
Occupancy permit assessment time-frames
The Shire has 10 business days to decide on an occupancy permit application. A further information request may be sent to the nominated builder or applicant if additional information is required. The builder/applicant then has 21 calendar days to provide the requested information.
The Shire has the right to refuse an application if the required information is not provided within the designated 21-day time-frame. The Shire also has the right to retain the application fee.