Can I Lodge a Building Information Certificate (BIC) for a Shed or Garage Conversion in NSW?

If you’ve converted your garage into a room or added a shed without council approval, you’re not alone.

In NSW, unauthorised works like garage conversions or large sheds are surprisingly common.

But ignoring them can lead to serious issues with council compliance, insurance, and even selling your home later.

Yes, you can lodge a Building Information Certificate (BIC) for a shed or garage conversion, and in many cases, you should.

It’s one of the most effective ways to regularise unapproved structures under NSW planning law.

Here’s what you need to know

1. A BIC Confirms the Structure Is Safe and Acceptable to Council

A BIC is a formal document issued by your local council confirming they will not take any action against an existing structure for at least seven years.

It’s not the same as a development application, but it can provide similar peace of mind when it comes to older or unauthorised works.

In practice, it means council accepts the shed or garage conversion as it stands and won’t pursue demolition or legal action.

This is crucial if you're preparing for sale, refinancing or simply want to avoid future compliance issues.

2. Not All Garage Conversions or Sheds Qualify Automatically

Council won’t issue a BIC for every structure.

The shed or converted garage must meet the relevant building codes and zoning controls under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act.

If it doesn’t comply with basic planning rules, like building setbacks, maximum height or flood controls, a BIC may not be an option.

That’s where a qualified planning consultant becomes critical.

At Town Planning Sydney, we regularly assess existing structures against NSW planning requirements to determine if a BIC is feasible.

If it’s not, we’ll guide you on whether a development application or other approval pathway is more appropriate.

3. A BIC Often Requires Supporting Documents and Reports

Lodging a BIC is more than just filling in a form.

Most councils in NSW will request supporting plans, architectural drawings and potentially reports from structural or fire safety consultants.

Town Planning Sydney provides in-house drafting and design to simplify this process.

We create accurate, compliant plans that reflect the built work and help strengthen your BIC application.

In many cases, we also manage council liaison directly, saving you from back-and-forth emails or miscommunication.

4. You May Need a BIC to Lodge a Future DA

If you plan to extend your home, build a granny flat or apply for any kind of DA approval, council may flag unapproved structures as a problem.

We’ve had clients whose renovation DAs were put on hold because of a garage conversion done years earlier without approval.

Council asked for the issue to be resolved before assessing the new development application.

In that case, a BIC for the converted garage cleared the way for the DA to proceed.

Planning ahead helps avoid these delays.

5. Real Example: A Client in Northern Beaches Converted Their Garage into a Home Office

They assumed it was minor and didn’t need approval.

Years later, they applied for DA approval to build a first-floor addition.

Council flagged the unapproved garage conversion and paused the DA process.

Town Planning Sydney stepped in, reviewed the plans and zoning, and confirmed the conversion met relevant standards.

We prepared a BIC application, including drafting and supporting documentation, and obtained council approval within weeks.

The DA was then approved without further issue.

6. A BIC Can Be Faster and Less Risky Than a Retrospective DA

Some clients ask whether it’s better to lodge a retrospective development application.

While this may be possible in some cases, it’s often slower and carries more risk of refusal.

A BIC is generally quicker and less contentious, especially if the structure complies with building and planning standards.

Our planning consultants can assess your specific situation and provide tailored planning advice to help you choose the right path.

7. Don’t Wait for Council to Find the Issue First

It’s always better to act before council intervenes.

If they become aware of an unauthorised garage conversion or shed, they can issue a demolition or rectification order.

That often leads to rushed applications, legal costs or even fines.

Proactively lodging a BIC is a smart way to stay in control and avoid stress down the line

For expert planning advice and BIC support, Town Planning Sydney offers end-to-end assistance.

From assessment to drafting to council approval, we streamline the process so you can move forward with confidence.