Certificate for Public Use
Public access while building
If you're building or altering a building that the public use, you can apply for a Certificate for Public Use.
These certificates allow public access to all or part of the premises during work, and before a Code Compliance Certificate is issued. You should apply one week prior to occupying the premises, and certificates may be subject to certain conditions.
Who can get a Certificate for Public Use
Anyone who owns, occupies or controls premises intended for public use may apply.
Council will inspect the premises before issuing a Certificate for Public Use. Someone must be present at the premises to provide information on:
- Safety issues and control of access to the premises
- Any existing and changed specified systems
- Documented proof that these systems have met their requirements.
Buildings that need a Certificate for Public Use
All buildings that can be used by the public. This can include:
- Shopping centres or stores
- Sports stadiums, swimming pools and recreation centres
- Schools or childcare centres
- Buildings with open reception areas like hostels, hospitals or office/apartment buildings.
A certificate can apply to all or part of a building. If you don't have a certificate, you could be fined.
How to apply
To apply, please download the form below, complete and return the form with payment to Council.
Cost
You can find current costs for a Certificate for Public Use in the Fees & Charges section of our website, under Building Services. You can apply in conjunction with a Building Consent Application or scheduled inspection.
Members of the public using the premises
What you'll need
You will need to provide proof of ownership, or authorisation to apply for this certificate, by providing:
- Copy of Certificate of Title
- Lease
- Agreement for Sale and Purchase
- Licence
- Property Management Agreement
- A document showing full name of the applicant.
You will also need to include building consent numbers, evidence of IQP engagement and plans.
After your application
Council will arrange an inspection before issuing the certificate, as outlined above.
When we will issue a certificate
Council will issue a certificate only if they are satisfied that members of the public:
- Can use the premises safely
- Can evacuate safely in the event of emergency, and all specified systems have been certified by the installers.
When we won't issue a certificate
A Certificate for Public use cannot be issued:
- If part or all of the building required to be occupied is not deemed safe to use
- For any work completed before 1 July 1992
- If work was carried out without first obtaining a building consent (that is, unauthorized work)
- In the case of unauthorized work carried out between 1 July 1992 and 31 March 2005, a Certificate of Acceptance only may be applied for
- In the case of unauthorized work carried out after 31 March 2005, a notice to fix must be issued
- All existing and new specified system items have not been installed and not operating with certificates issued by the installer.
Code Compliance Certificates (CCC)
If you are granted a CPU, you must still apply for a CCC after all the building work is completed.
Note that your Certificate for Public Use may have a time limit, and all specified systems need to be maintained.
