Frequently Asked Questions

You Asked. We Answered.

Real questions from real Victorian business owners navigating council chaos — answered in plain English, not planner-speak. Because the more you know, the faster you grow.

  • Most business owners try — until council shuts them down.
    In Victoria, you can’t legally trade, fit out, or operate without the correct planning permit. That café you love, the gym next door, the clinic down the road — every one of them got a permit before opening.
    Skipping this step can mean stop-work orders, compliance letters, and thousands in lost rent.
    That’s why we created the $197 Pulse Check™ — a fast, plain-English review that tells you within 48 hours if council will support your idea.

  • You’re basically gambling with council — and the house always wins.
    If you skip a planning permit, council can issue a Notice of Non-Compliance, which means:

    • You’ll have to shut down until it’s approved

    • You’ll pay for a full retrospective permit (often double the stress)

    • In some cases, you’ll face legal action or be forced to undo your fit-out

    The good news? We specialise in fixing “illegal works” and compliance letters, turning “you’re in trouble” into “you’re approved. Book a quick call if you’ve received that letter.

  • Every property in Victoria has a zoning category that decides what it can be used for. Add overlays — parking, flooding, heritage — and things get messy fast.
    Our Pulse Check™ shows you exactly what council rules apply to your site so you can buy or lease with confidence, not confusion.

  • Simple — start right, not rushed.
    Fast approvals go to applications that are strategic and council-ready from day one.
    That’s what our Full Permit Application is built for.
    We manage zoning checks, supporting reports, and planner liaison — so your file lands on the council desk ready for a YES.

  • Building permits are about safety and structure.
    Planning permits are about what council allows on that land.
    You usually need the planning permit first — otherwise your builder can’t start.
    We handle that first step: securing council’s green light so your build or fit-out can move forward legally.

  • They mean well — but they’re not trained in council policy.
    Architects design. Builders build. Town planners get permission.
    We bridge that gap, translating designs into applications councils actually approve — because good ideas deserve green lights.

  • Yes — and you’re not alone.
    Most rejections happen because the original report was incomplete or unclear.
    We review, rewrite, and resubmit your application so it aligns with the planning scheme.
    Book a call and we’ll turn that NO into a council YES.

  • Yes — in most cases.

    That includes wall signs, lightboxes, window decals, and even awning signage.
    Before you print or install anything, check first. It’s faster and cheaper than fixing it later.

  • Absolutely. Before you buy, our Pulse Check™ reveals what your property can (and can’t) be used for.
    It’s how smart investors avoid hidden traps and bad buys.
    Run a Pulse Check™ before you sign a contract.

  • If you already have a property in mind, start with the $197 Pulse Check™.
    You’ll know within 48 hours where you stand with council.
    Not sure where to start? Book a 15-min Discovery Call and let’s map your next move.