Overview
Every business is different. Depending on the type, you may need one or more business permits. Before you apply, we strongly recommend you contact us to verify which permits you need and how to prepare your application.
- Permit fees
Standard fees apply to all permit types. Relevant department/s will contact you after you submit your application to confirm the final cost and payment details.
- Approval time frames
This will depend on the type of permits you need and the detail provided in your application.
- Further discussion
We may request further information while your application is being assessed. Please respond promptly to avoid a delay in the application process.
Apply for permits
Don't buy or sign a lease before seeking advice from Council.
Before applying for a permit, contact the Business Permits Service team on businesspermits@casey.vic.gov.au. They will help you identify which permits or permissions your business may require.
- Planning
Typically takes from 2 to 12 months
A Planning Permit may be required from the Planning Department for reasons including but not limited to operating a home-based business, changing the use of an address, displaying signage, undertaking buildings and works, reducing car parking requirements and trading liquor. Multiple permit requirements are generally combined into one planning permit application.
- A planning permit is generally required before obtaining building and environmental health permits.
- A planning application generally consists of an application form, plans of your proposal (drawn to scale), copies of title documents and a written description and justification. Specialist reports may be required.
- A planning permit can take significant time to process, depending on the complexity of your business and its proposed location. We will request further information if your initial application is insufficiently detailed.
- In many cases, your application will be advertised, e.g., by a sign on the land and/or letters to neighbouring properties. If advertising is required, additional fees will be incurred for us to advertise the application on your property. We will take into account any objections received.
- Approvals from external regulators, e.g., the Department of Transport and Planning, Melbourne Water, Environment Protection Authority, Liquor Control Victoria and others, may be required.
- You have the right to seek a review of Council decisions through the Victorian Civil and Administration Tribunal (VCAT), which will add to the final decision timeline. Objectors can also seek a review of Council’s decision through VCAT.
- Building
Typically takes 1 to 2 months
The City of Casey does not issue building permits; however, we can provide building advice, including process and expected timelines. To locate a building surveyor, visit the Victorian Building Authority website.
A Building Permit is likely to be needed if your application involves any of the following:
- The construction of new buildings and demolition and altercation of existing buildings.
- Canopies
- Permanent structures
- Fit out, such as removing partitions or walls and installing a bar or countertop.
- Addition or alteration of steps and ramps
- Addition of mezzanines
- Change of use of property, e.g. from an office to a shop.
For more information, please visit our page on building works that may require a permit.
- Environmental Health
Typically takes from 4 to 6 weeks
Environmental Health registration is required for several business types, including:
- The sale of food (includes production, wholesale, retail, and food storage)
- Temporary or mobile food business, e.g. market stall, food van
- Home-based business (food or health)
- Hair, beauty and skin penetration businesses (including tattooing, dry needling, waxing, hairdressing)
- Prescribed accommodation
- Wastewater and septic systems
- Local laws
Approvals from the City Compliance Department may be required for the following business types:
- All animal-related businesses
- Skip bins and extra waste bins
- Consumption of liquor on Council land
- Roadside trading
- Footpath trading
- Outdoor dining
- A-frame signs
- Goods for sale or display
For more information, visit Local laws.
Learn more about roadside trading requirements and permits
What happens after your application
You will be notified of the outcome of your application once it has been assessed. In some cases, we may need to contact you for additional information.
If your application is approved, we will email you a copy of your permit or registration and, where appropriate, mail you hard copies.
You can start operating once you have the correct permits.
Our Economic Development team is always available to support businesses in Casey.