Step 4: Apply for a Permit - Utility Connection or Authority Works

Permits for utility connection or authority works are valid for 6 months from the date of issue and will expire if the work is not started during this time. 

How to Apply

Apply online (below) and upload the following documentation:

  • Plan or diagram of proposed works.
  • The contractor’s public liability insurance certificate that:
    • Is valid for the period of the works
    • Is for a minimum of $20 million cover
    • Is a 'certificate of currency' - we cannot accept an invoice or schedule
  • A letter or document that authorises the contractor to work on behalf of an authority, connect to a utility service or work on an authority's asset.
  • Any other written approvals from any other relevant authorities or Council departments.

Please allow 10 business days for processing and assessment of your application.

You must not start works until you receive a permit. 

Type of Works

If you are connecting a utility service to a property or development site or are completing works other than vehicle crossings or stormwater drainage works:

If you are a utility service authority, road authority or public transport operator, or a contractor authorised to work on behalf of one of these, undertaking ‘major’ works (more than 8.5 square metres of excavation) in the road reserve:

Note: authorities undertaking ‘minor’ works (less than 8.5 square metres of excavation) are exempt from obtaining this permit.  

Onsite Inspection

A Council Inspector will conduct an onsite assessment of your application and will contact you if they have any questions or need further information about the proposed work.

Approval

Once your application is approved, we will email a permit to you.

The permit and supporting details need to be given to your contractor before the works start.

Final Inspection and Bond Refund

Where a security deposit/bond is required (authorities are exempt), it is refundable upon satisfactory completion of the permitted works.

When the works are complete let us know by phoning Engineering Administration on 9262 6177 or by email to customer.service@whitehorse.vic.gov.au (include the site address and permit number). A Council Inspector will then inspect the site. If the works, including reinstatement, are completed to the satisfaction of the Inspector, you will receive a full refund of the bond. If the works are unsatisfactory, the Council Inspector will contact you. Please allow 2-3 weeks for the inspection, approvals and refund.

The bond will be refunded by EFT (electronic funds transfer). You will be given more information about this process when you contact us to request a final inspection.

Please note this bond is required in addition to any relevant Asset Protection bond(s).

Final Inspections for Authorities

The Council Inspector will need to check the site once works are completed to ensure that the Council road reserve has been reinstated correctly.

  • The final inspection can be booked by phoning Engineering Administration on 9262 6177.
  • The exact booking time you require may not always be available, depending on demand. 

Council may seek to hold you responsible for any Public Liability claims relating to Council assets that have been damaged as a result of the permitted works.

Important Information

All works must be completed with the appropriate permits and consents, to the satisfaction of Council.

For more information phone Engineering Administration on 9262 6177.