When do I need an Owner-Builder Permit?

An Owner-Builder Permit is required for any residential building work, including supervision and co-ordination where the reasonable market cost (including labour and materials) exceeds $10,000 and requires development consent under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, or a complying development approval.

Owner-Builder Permits are issued by the NSW Department of Fair Trading and require an applicant to complete an approved Owner-Builder course or have the equivalent education and experience.

The Owner-Builder Permit must be provided to the Principal Certifier (PC) prior to building work commencing. The PC is not able to carry out any inspections until the permit has been provided. Further information can be found on the NSW Fair Trading website.