Building Information Certificate (BIC) Application
Building Information Certificate (BIC)
A Building Information Certificate (BIC) is typically sought by property buyers or sellers to ensure that a building and its land can remain as is, without regulatory action from Council.
It is also used to regularise unauthorised works and prevents Council from ordering demolition, alteration, or rebuilding for seven years, except for fire safety or building product rectification orders. It may apply to all or part of a building.
Further information regarding Building Information Certificates can be found in the Practice Note prepared by the Department of Planning and Environment.
The standard assessment timeframe is approximately 20 days; however, this may vary depending on how promptly the applicant provides any required documentation.
Application Process
Step 1: Register or Log In
Applications must be lodged online via the NSW Planning Portal.
Step 2: Gather Documents
Class 1 & 10 Buildings (e.g., dwellings, garages, sheds)
- Owner’s consent form
- Cover letter/statement of works
- Accurate architectural plans (site, floor, elevations)
- A current identification survey report that details the property boundaries, levels, and the specific development under consideration
- Structural engineering certification (if required)
- Smoke alarm certificate (if required)
- Bushfire report (if bushfire prone)
Class 2–9 Buildings (e.g., commercial, industrial, multi-unit housing)
- Owner’s consent form
- Cover letter/description of works
- Statement of Environmental Effects
- Accurate architectural plans (site, floor, elevations)
- Current survey report including the development in question (boundaries and levels)
- Structural engineering certification
- Fire Safety Schedule (if required)
Step 3: Lodge Application
Complete application and upload all required documents electronically via the Planning Portal.
Once you are logged in to the Planning Portal, you can refer to the DPE Submit a BIC Quick Reference Guide that includes useful screenshots to step applicants through the Planning Portal lodgement process.
Step 4: Preliminary Review
Council reviews the application for compliance and document quality.
They may accept, request more information, or return the application with reasons.
Step 5: Pay Council Fees
- Following acceptance an application fee of $250.00 is required.
- DA and Construction Certificate Fees may also apply for unauthorised works.
- Notification Fees may also apply for unauthorised works.
Step 6: Pay NSW Planning Portal Fees
- The NSW Department of Planning & Environment requires a $46 lodgement fee for all BIC applications.
Step 7: Assessment & Inspection
The assessing officer reviews all plans and documents, may request further information, and arranges a site inspection.
The officer considers legislative requirements and site constraints before making a determination.
Request a copy of a Building Information Certificate
• A copy of a BIC may only be obtained with the written, signed and dated consent of the owner(s) of the building.
• Please use this form to apply for a copy of a Building Information Certificate.
• There is a fee of $13.00 per copy.
• Once completed email to ask@centralcoast.nsw.gov.au and a Customer Service Officer will contact you for payment.
Further Information
For further advice, contact the Customer Service Centre on (02) 4306-7900 and ask for the Duty Surveyor.