Guide to Council Approvals & Permits for Renovations

Permission confusion, sorted

Council approvals can feel like a total maze. With every local area setting its own rules, it’s no wonder so many renovators end up confused. What needs a permit? What doesn’t? And how can you tell if your renovation is in the clear?

Here’s the good news: if your renovation is purely cosmetic – think new tiles, fresh grout, no plumbing re-routes, you may not need any formal approval at all. This guide breaks it all down for you. You’ll learn what to check, where to look, and how to keep your project moving (and compliant).

Let’s make permits one less thing to stress about.

Do you need council approval for internal renovations?

In most cases, you don’t need council approval for internal home renovations like updating tiles. These are considered cosmetic changes and usually fall under exempt development. But there are two key exceptions: waterproofing and plumbing. If you’re touching either, you will need a licensed tradesperson to issue certification – even if council approval isn’t required.

Structural changes (like knocking down internal walls or altering layouts) almost always require a permit. Here’s the takeaway: internal home renovations aren’t one size fits all when it comes to approvals. Always double check with your local council or a trusted builder to make sure you’re covered.

How council permits work in Australia

Across Australia, permit rules vary by state, but most approvals fall into one of three categories:

Development Applications (DAs) – required for significant structural or layout changes. Common in NSW and QLD.
Complying Development Certificates (CDCs) – fast tracked permits in NSW for renovations that meet pre set criteria.
Planning Permits – VIC’s version of a DA, needed for works that impact structure or appearance.

Some local councils (like Brisbane) also offer fast track schemes like RiskSMART.

Living in a heritage listed home or apartment building? You may need extra sign offs from council and strata. Strata by laws often cover noise, hours of work and waterproofing compliance – so don’t skip that step.

For full detail, check your state portal:

NSW Planning Portal
VIC Planning
QLD Planning

Still unsure? Your builder or designer likely knows your council’s requirements inside out. Ask them early to avoid delays.

Council free? What to do next

If you’ve confirmed you don’t need council approval, you’re good to go – but that doesn’t mean it’s time to wing it.

Here’s how to keep your renovation on track:

Book your tradies early. The good ones get snapped up fast.
Confirm licensing and insurance. Your tradie should be certified for any waterproofing, electrical, or plumbing work.
Set your timeline in writing. Agree on your project schedule upfront and factor in material lead times.
Document everything. Keep quotes, certifications and approvals in one place – it’ll make life easier if questions come up mid-project.

Even without council oversight, waterproofing must meet Australian Standards. Make sure your trades are following code and providing proof where required.

Quick checklist: Do I need a permit?

Tiling only = no
Waterproofing = likely yes (needs licensed professional)
Plumbing re routes = likely yes
Layout changes = yes
Heritage homes = check with council
Apartment renovations = check strata AND council
Anything exterior = likely yes

Approvals don’t need to stall your style

Now that you know what to ask (and who to ask), council permits no longer need to stall your renovation momentum. If you’re just planning a tiling refresh, odds are you’re in the clear – and can start designing with confidence.

Need a second opinion or styling support? Our TileCloud design services are here to help you make choices you’ll love for years. Because when it comes to planning, the earlier you start, the faster your reno can flow.