Wellington Shire Council would like to remind residents that there are heavy penalties for failing to obtain a Building Permit.

In Sales Magistrates Court on Wednesday 26 January 2017, a property owner from Robertsons Beach was found guilty and fined $4,000 plus $2,250 in costs, for failing to comply with a Building Order issued by Council’s Municipal Building Surveyor.

The Building Order was issued to the property owner for failing to obtain a Building Permit for the location of two portable buildings on the site and occupying the buildings without an Occupancy Permit.

The property owner was also ordered to vacate the buildings and remove them from site within 30 days.

Wellington Shire Council General Manager Development, John Websdale, said: “A Building Permit ensures that the proposed structure complies with the necessary rules and regulations prior to works being undertaken.

“Failure to obtain a Building Permit is a very serious offence, as this property owner has discovered.

“I would urge anyone wanting to undertake any building work to be aware of the rules and regulations and seek the advice and services of a Building Surveyor, who are responsible for issuing a Building Permit.”

The Building Act 1993 and the Regulations state that building work must not be commenced prior to the issue of a Building Permit.

Further information on Building Permits can be found at www.wellington.vic.gov.au/buildingpermits or contact Council on 1300 366 244.