Starting, expanding or buying a business

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Thanks for choosing the Borough as a place to start or grow your business.

Whether you're starting a new business, taking over an existing business or expanding your current operations, you may need permits, registrations or other approvals from Council before you begin.

We understand it can be difficult to know where to start. This webpage provides a roadmap to help you understand which Council approvals may apply to your business and the steps you may need to take.

What types of permits might my business need?

Depending on your business and what you are proposing, you may need one or more Council permits, registrations or approvals, including:

  • Planning – may include permits for the use or development of land, licensed premises, business signage and other planning requirements.
  • Building – may include a building permit for proposed building work or requirements relating to the use and occupation of a building.
  • Environmental Health – may include permits for onsite wastewater management systems and registration of food premises, prescribed accommodation, and certain personal care and body art businesses such as hairdressing, beauty therapy and tattooing premises.
  • Local Laws – may include permits for activities such as footpath trading and registration requirements for domestic animal businesses.

The permits, registrations and approvals you need will depend on your proposed business activities, location and premises. We recommend checking the requirements that apply to your business before entering into commitments or commencing works.

Before you apply

Submit your Business Permit Checklist

If you need multiple permits, our Economic Development team can arrange a meeting with you and the relevant Council departments to get advice on what information you'll need to include in your application. Simply complete the Business Permit Checklist below and we'll contact you to arrange a meeting. 

  

Assessment

Once your permit application form has been submitted, we'll begin assessing your application.

Receiving the application

A team member from each relevant department will be assigned to your application, and they'll contact you to advise the expected timelines to assess your application. You're welcome to contact them to check on the status of your application. The Economic Development team also will be available as a point of contact throughout this process.

Permit payments

There are standard fees that apply to all permit types. The details of your application will determine the exact fees and charges. A team member from the relevant department will contact you after you submit your application to confirm the final fee and payment details.

Requests for further information

You might receive a request for further information during the assessment phase. Please be prompt in responding to any requests, as a slow response may delay a decision on your application.

Outcome

Once we've finished our assessment, we will be in touch to confirm our decision. If your application is approved, we'll email you a copy of your permit or registration and, where appropriate, hard copies will also be mailed to you.

When you're ready to open the doors, our Economic Development team will assist you to hit the ground running by flagging services that will help your business to grow and succeed. 

 

Helpful resources

 

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