Do I Need Council Approval for Electrical Work?

Most standard electrical work, like adding power points, upgrading a switchboard, or installing an EV charger, doesn't require council or building permit approval on its own.

What's generally exempt

Routine electrical work carried out and certified by a licensed electrician is typically self-certifying through the compliance certificate process, without needing a separate council permit.

When broader approval may apply

• Electrical work is part of a larger renovation or new build requiring a building permit
• Work involves changes to the property's structure alongside the electrical work
• You're in a heritage-overlay area with specific restrictions

Getting it right

If your electrical work is standalone (not part of a bigger renovation), a licensed electrician's compliance certificate is generally what you need. If it's part of a larger project, your builder or building surveyor can confirm what permits the overall works require.