Permits for your business
Whether you are starting a new business, expanding an existing business, or taking over another business, you may need permission from Council to operate.
Council is here to help guide your business through the application process and to ensure you have the permits you need quickly and easily.
What types of permits might my business need?
Planning Approval
You may need a Planning Permit for your business, depending on the zone, overlay, whether or not you are serving liquor and other factors. A Planning Permit application is where Council checks to make sure that your business use and development of land won't negatively affect the surrounding area. You should check with your Council to make sure you need a Planning Permit before undertaking an application.
Planning Approval Fact Sheets
Building Approval
If you're planning to build or renovate, it must be done safely, be structurally sound and appropriate for the area. To ensure this, you'll need a Building Permit. This can only be done if you already have a Planning Permit, so make sure you get that first. You may also need an Occupancy Permit, if your business is different from what the premises are used for now. For more information about getting a Building Permit, view the Building Permits for Businesses fact sheet.
Building Approval Fact Sheets
Liquor Licensing & Food Registration
If you serve or sell alcohol you'll need a Liquor Licence from the Victorian Liquor Commission. To sell food, you'll need to be registered with the local Council.
Liquor Licencing & Food Registration Fact Sheets
Regulations & Registrations
If you have significant environmental impacts such as air quality, noise, odour and waste you may need to meet EPA policies, standards and guidelines. If you use a footpath outside your business for seating, displaying goods or advertising signs, you will need a local laws permit from the Council. Once you have approval from each regulation that applies to your business, you're allowed to operate.
Regulations & Registrations Fact Sheets
Guidelines by Industry
Guidelines by Industry Fact Sheets
What steps do I need to take to apply for the required permits?
1. Complete the Self-Assessment form
Complete the following Self-Assessment form to receive a summary of permits you may need.
Click here to view form
2. Prepare your business for applications
It is important you submit all the required information as part of your application. Incomplete applications can significantly increase the assessment time.
The following links provide you with a range of advice and tools to assist preparing for your application:
3. Apply for permits and approvals
Click on the relevant permits and registrations you require to start the application process
Receiving the application
A team member from each relevant department will begin to assess the application as soon as it is received. Council officers will be able to help guide you through the application process.
Permit payments
Standard fees apply to all permit types. The details provided in the application will determine the exact fees and charges. A team member from each relevant department will contact you after your application submission to confirm the final fee and payment details.
4. Assessment
Planning applications will be advertised if necessary. The Public Health team may conduct progress inspections throughout the assessment process; however, the final inspection will be conducted after registration payment is received.
Requests for further information
You may be required to provide further information during the assessment phase. Please respond promptly to these requests, to speed up the application process.
5. Outcome
Each department will notify you separately regarding their final decision and provide the required permits to operate.
If you would like any further information, or have any questions about doing business in Hobsons Bay, contact us on 1300 179 944.