Do you need a building permit for a stud wall?

Question

Bunnings provides this video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZC9Db3oJhg

Suggest you do need a permit https://www.5jbuilding.com.au/do-i-need-a-building-permit-for-wall-removal-in-victoria/

Here are some more details https://www.geelongaustralia.com.au/building/permits/article/item/8cc03628d02372e.aspx

Above refers to https://www.vba.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/136149/Building-BP-01-When-is-a-building-permit-required-CURRENT-20-Dec-2023.pdf

Which refers to https://classic.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/vic/consol_reg/br2018200/sch3.html

JacobZ · Answer

Hi @damoa,

They are referring to a decrease in floor area in terms of the entire structure, which is often referred to as the footprint. In reducing the footprint, the load path and engineering of the roof or second story would change, thus requiring re-evaluation by an engineer or licenced person, and the issuance of an updated building permit.

A non-structural wall would reduce the overall usable area, but it would not technically reduce the footprint of the building.

If you have concerns about your own project and want to be sure, I'd suggest you reach out to the VBA, or your local building authority for their guidance.

Jacob

damoa · Answer

In Victoria it seems the key sentence out of https://www.vba.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/136149/Building-BP-01-When-is-a-building-permit-required-CURRENT-20-Dec-2023.pdf "…. will not adversely affect the structural soundness of the building, and does not include:  an increase or decrease in the floor area." i.e. a  new stud wall uses up floor space.

JacobZ · Answer

Hi @damoa,

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is wonderful to have you with us.

The important differentiation that is made early in the video is that it is a non-load-bearing stud wall. Typically, non-load bearing walls, meaning they do not directly support a roof or second story, do not require a permit, whereas a load bearing wall, which will support a roof or a second storey, will require a permit.

In saying this, if you are planning a renovation that includes the addition of a non-load bearing wall, then it is still worth contacting your local council to enquire as to whether a permit is required or not. Typically, the answer will be no, but it is always best to double check.

If the renovation involves removing a load bearing wall or installing a new one, then you will almost certainly require a permit.

I hope this helps to clarify. Please let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob