Apply for a certificate of existing use
You can apply for a certificate of existing use if you need written confirmation that a use, building or works on your land was lawful.
You may need to establish an existing use right if:
- the use, building or works would be prohibited under the current planning rules but was
- permitted without a development permit before a change to the planning scheme.
A planning certificate is considered proof of fact at the time of issue.
Before you apply
Before you apply, you will need:
- your contact details and other beneficiary details
- owner's authorisation if you are not the sole property owner
- evidence that the:
- current use of the land is an existing use or
- building or work is an existing building or existing work.
How to apply
Apply for a certificate of use through the Development Applications Online website.
Fees
You will need to pay a $326 application fee.
After you apply
Read below to find out what happens after you submit your application.
Decision maker
The decision maker is:
- Development Consent Authority (within DCA areas) or
- the Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics (outside of DCA areas).
Administrating branch
The administrating branch is Development Assessment Services.
Last updated: 13 November 2020
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