Common Mistakes That Lead to Planning Act Breaches (And How to Avoid Them)

Frequent Causes of Breaches

• Relying on verbal advice from builders or neighbours

• Assuming small works don’t need approval

• Starting work before the development permit is issued

• Misinterpreting matters relevant to whether development is assessable (zoning or overlays for example)

• Failing to read development conditions

• Expanding or starting a business without a Material Change of Use approval

  
  

How to Avoid Breaches

• Obtain a planning certificate from your local government or Council

• Check zoning and overlays

• Confirm whether development is assessable

• Read approval conditions carefully

• Seek advice before starting work