How to make an application for certificate of acceptance, what happens after we receive your application, and what to bring along to a pre-application meeting (if needed).

You can make an application for a COA via the online AlphaOne system (most common method), but you can also complete a hard copy certificate of acceptance  [PDF, 226 KB]application form.

With your application you need to provide documents that support your application that

  • explains what the work is that has been done, and
  • describes or confirms how the work was carried out.

Documents must be PDF format.

At a minimum, your application should include:

  • a basic plan of the building identifying the location of the work
  • photos taken outside and inside
  • any plans or specifications that were followed during the work
  • photos of the work in progress as it was carried out
  • certificates or statements issued by others about the work they have done are also useful for determining compliance – these can include invoices showing the materials used or who carried out parts of the work.

All this information helps Council to decide if the work is likely to comply with the building code, especially where work is covered in and cannot be inspected.

Receiving your application

When we receive your application it is briefly checked to see that adequate information has been supplied so it can be processed.

We may contact you before accepting your application to

  • discuss what you have submitted and whether there is sufficient information based on the scope of work you are requesting a COA for, and/or
  • suggest you have a preapplication meeting with us so further clarification can be provided by you and by Council.

What to bring to a pre-application meeting

If we arrange a pre-application meeting with you, please bring along to the meeting the information required with your application for discussion.

At the meeting our team will advise you

  • whether a building consent is required for any of the work
  • if any other Council approvals may be required
  • if you’re unlikely to obtain a certificate of acceptance, so that we don’t waste your time and money.