Can You Operate Your Business at That Address?
The planning scheme is complex. The same commercial zone can allow a cafe but prohibit a gym. A premises that previously operated as a shop might not be suitable for a medical centre. Before you sign a lease or buy a property for your business, find out whether your use is actually permitted.
Instant results from $19. Professional assessments from $399.
Scenarios We See Every Week
These are real situations where a $19 check could save thousands in wasted lease deposits, fitout costs, and legal fees.
Opening a cafe or restaurant
Food and drink premises have different permit requirements depending on the zone, the number of seats, the hours of operation, and whether there's a liquor licence. We check all of it.
Setting up a gym or studio
Indoor recreation facilities aren't permitted in every commercial zone. Even where they are, car parking, noise, and hours of operation can create issues. We assess your specific proposal.
Converting to childcare
Childcare centres have specific planning scheme requirements beyond the zone. Outdoor play areas, drop-off zones, proximity to residential areas — the planning assessment goes well beyond 'is it in a commercial zone'.
Medical or allied health practice
Medical centres often fall under 'office' in the planning scheme but have different car parking generation rates. We check the specific requirements that apply to your type of practice.
Trade supplies or warehouse
Industrial and trade uses have strict zone requirements. Many industrial zones are being rezoned to commercial or mixed-use. We check current and proposed controls for your use.
Home-based business
Working from home might seem simple, but planning schemes regulate home occupations — number of employees, client visits, signage, and vehicle movements. We'll tell you what's allowed at your address.
Why Looking Up the Zone Isn't Enough
You can look up your zone on any mapping tool. But knowing you're in a Commercial 1 Zone doesn't tell you whether your specific business use is a Section 1 use (as of right), Section 2 (permit required), or Section 3 (prohibited). And even if it's Section 1, there might be conditions. Our reports tell you exactly where your proposed use sits and what you need to do.
As of Right
No permit needed for the use itself, but conditions may still apply.
Permit Required
Council must approve your use. We assess the likelihood of approval.
Prohibited
The use cannot be approved regardless. We identify alternatives.
How Much Can This Save You?
The traditional approach is to hire a planning consultant from the start. That works — but it's expensive when all you need is a quick answer.
“Can I open a cafe here?”
the same question in minutes
for complete due diligence
You'll still need a consultant if a permit is required — but by then you'll know exactly what the issues are and can ask targeted questions instead of paying for basic research. Our clients typically save $500–$1,500 in unnecessary preliminary consultation fees by screening sites first.
Start with a Quick Check. Go Deeper If You Need To.
Business Use Check
$19
Tell us the address and your proposed business use. We'll check the zone use tables and tell you whether it's permitted, needs a permit, or is prohibited. Results delivered in minutes.
Check Your UseChange of Use Assessment
From $449
Full professional assessment covering zone analysis, overlay impacts, car parking requirements, amenity considerations, and a professional opinion on permit likelihood. Includes title search and restriction review.
Order Full AssessmentCheck Before You Commit
A $19 use check takes minutes and could save you from signing a lease on a premises where your business can't legally operate.
Business Use Check — $19