Apply for an extension of time

To extend the date by which an approved development must commence and be completed

Apply for an extension of time.

You may request an extension of time to:

• Commence a use;
• Commence a development;
• Complete a development;
• Certify a subdivision

Planning permits include conditions specifying the dates by which an approved use and/or development must be commenced and completed. 

Typically, a time limit condition will allow:

• Two years to commence a new use;
• Two years to commence an approved development;
• Two years from the date of commencement to complete an approved development;
• Two years to certify a plan of subdivision; and
• Five years to complete a subdivision from the date of certification

Where delays have prevented the commencement of an approved use and/or the commencement and completion of an approved development a request to extend expiry dates may be made in accordance with Section 69 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987.

When considering a request to extend expiry dates, Statutory Planning will consider specific criteria, including whether or not there has been any change to planning policy since the issuing of the permit that would weigh in favour of, or weigh against approval.

Please note:

• A request to extend the commencement date of an approved use and/or development may be received up to six months after the expiry date;
• A request to extend the completion date of an approved development may be received up to 12 months after the expiry date;
• The City of Ballarat and the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) cannot approve requests lodged outside the applicable timeframe(s).

For any queries regarding this process:

• Email: planninginfo@ballarat.vic.gov.au
• Phone: (03) 5320 5500