Asset Protection

Asset Protection Permits aim to protect public assets from private building activities taking place on private land to ensure public infrastructure, such as footpaths, drainage and roads, as well as vegetation on public land (including street trees), remain serviceable during the construction process and are not left damaged at the completion of works.

Once a permit has been paid for, our Asset Surveillance Officers will inspect the public assets prior to works commencing, and again upon completion. Should damage occur during works, the works manager will be held liable for rectification to City of Ballarat standards. If works commence without a permit, the works manager will be issued with an infringement notice and held accountable for reinstatement of all damage identified at the site.

This requirement is based on City of Ballarat’s Community Local Law, which requires property owners, builders, agents, or demolition contractors to:

• Get an Asset Protection Permit before Building Work starts.
• Not commence any Building Work unless an Asset Protection Permit has been issued.
• Follow all Asset Protection Permit conditions set by the City of Ballarat

An Asset Protection Permit must be obtained when:

A Building Permit includes Building Works valued at $25,000 or more (including GST), as taken directly from the Building Permit issued; or

Certain types of Building Work regardless of cost are carried out under a Building Permit, including:

• Demolition works
• Construction of swimming pools/spas
• Removal of dwellings
• Commercial/large scale developments
• Front fence works
• Construction of retaining walls
• Use of cranes and scissor lifts on footpaths 

Visit the building permits page for more information.

Reinstatement standards

Reinstatements must meet City of Ballarat Works within Road Reserves Standards and Requirements 2026 to ensure the safety, and ongoing useful life of public infrastructure.

Do I have to pay for a permit?

Yes. The fee covers the two site inspections and administration.

Online

• Visit eservices.
• You will need to register before you can access the permit application.

In person

Visit our Customer Service Centre.