Skip to content

Changing a building’s use under DDA: the approval route

A proposed change of use needs to be considered separately from the building’s existing approval or a new tenant’s licence.

In this guide

DDA’s fit-out service directs a change of use to the Building Modification route. Confirm the current application and required design review before treating the change as an ordinary interior fit-out.

Separate the proposed use from the existing approval

Describe the current approved use and the proposed activity clearly. The relevant question is what is changing, not simply whether work occurs inside an existing shell.

Describe the current and proposed use

Gather the existing approved plans, unit details, owner permission and a clear description of the proposed use. Ask the appointed team which architectural, structural and building-services information the application requires.

Plan the modification submission

  1. Document the change

    Compare the existing approval and proposed activity.

  2. Confirm the DDA route

    Check the current modification application and any relevant circulars.

  3. Coordinate the design

    Have the responsible designers assess the affected parts of the building.

  4. Plan later stages

    Confirm the permit, inspection and completion requirements.

Confirm what the approval covers

DDA’s modification form separates design-review and permit submittals. A planning or design response should not automatically be treated as permission to start works. Check the deliverable and its conditions.

Support with a change of use

Gravity can help review the project information and coordinate the agreed design and approval scope. Explore the relevant service.

Back to the top

Common questions

Can the original building approval cover any new use?

Do not assume so. DDA identifies change of use as a reason to use Building Modification.

Is a business licence the same as a building approval?

They address different matters. Confirm the property approval route for the proposed activity.

Is every modification package the same?

No. Check the submittal type and its applicable technical documents.

Official sources

Prepared by Gravity Engineering. Sources checked 17 October 2026. Check the current official service requirements before applying.

Looking for advice on your project?

Tell us what you’re planning. We’ll help you understand the next steps.

Discuss your project

Tell us what you have in mind. We’ll help you understand the next steps.

One way to reach you is enough.

Prefer to speak directly?WhatsApp usCall us