Business Licences, Permits and Approvals

When starting or expanding a business, there are business licences, approvals and permits you may require.

Business licences, permits and approvals provide protection to you, your business and employees; ensure your business activities are allowed under Australian law; and enable you to trade without risk of fines or penalties.

The City regulates the following:

• Planning approval eg. for constructing a building, running a business
• Building permits eg. building, structural changes or additions, demolition
• Change of use eg. changing the use of a building or land
• Occupancy Permit - approval for a building to be occupied or used.

Talk to us first

We understand that the topic of licences, permits and approvals can be daunting – especially if you are just starting out in your business venture or planning a significant expansion or change to your business.

To get you started on the right foot, we highly recommend giving us a call to discuss your business. 

Contact the Business Engagement Officer on 08 9411 3444 during business hours or email [email protected].

Home-based businesses

The City is currently working on creating dedicated pages outlining the approvals, licences and permits that may be required for particular home-based businesses.  Further businesses will be added over the coming months.

• Beautician
• Chiropractor or Physiotherapist
• Consultant, Coach or Counsellor
• Dog Groomer
• Hairdresser or Barber
• Massage or Remedial Therapist
• Tattooist or Piercing Specialist

Useful tools

There are two online search tools you can use to find out about other licences that may apply to your business:

• Australian Business Licence Information Service opens in a new window
• Business Licence Finder opens in a new window (Small Business Development Commission)