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checklist · Red Tape Council · Updated 21 September 2026
Permit application checklist
Use this checklist to identify the permits or approvals your business may need, prepare an application, and keep a clear record of deadlines and decisions. Requirements vary by location and activity, so confirm each item with the responsible authority before you rely on it.
Application planning template
Copy and complete this section for each permit, approval, registration, inspection, or licence you may need. Use [brackets] for your answers. If an answer is unknown, write “to confirm” and assign someone to follow up.
- Business and activity
- Business name or working name: [name]
- Business contact person and preferred contact method: [name / phone / email]
- What the business will do: [plain-language description]
- Products or services: [list]
- Customers or users: [who, and where]
- Operating model: [shop / home-based / online / mobile / temporary / other]
- Planned opening or change date: [date]
- Locations and work
- Business address or operating area: [address / area]
- Other locations, markets, or delivery areas: [list]
- Premises status: [owned / rented / proposed / home / not applicable]
- Activities at each location: [describe]
- Will customers, staff, contractors, or deliveries attend? [yes/no; details]
- Authority and requirement
- Permit or approval to check: [name, if known]
- Responsible authority and office: [authority / department / contact]
- Where the requirement was found: [official page, notice, or contact]
- Does it apply to this activity and location? [confirmed / not confirmed / unclear]
- Is another permit, registration, inspection, or consent linked to it? [details]
- Requirements and costs
- Current form or official application link: [link / form name]
- Required documents or evidence: [list]
- Required plans, drawings, certificates, or photographs: [list / not applicable]
- Fee and payment method: [amount / method / confirmation needed]
- Inspection or appointment required? [yes/no; what and when]
- Published service time or decision target: [time / not published / to confirm]
- What can delay or pause the process? [missing documents / inspection / other]
- Application and follow-up
- Person responsible for submission: [name]
- Planned submission date: [date]
- Submitted date and method: [date / portal / email / in person]
- Reference or receipt number: [number]
- Next follow-up date: [date]
- Authority contact and case reference: [details]
- Questions still awaiting written answers: [list]
- Decision and operating conditions
- Decision received? [yes/no; date]
- Decision document saved at: [location]
- Approved activity, location, and dates: [details]
- Conditions, restrictions, or required changes: [list]
- Effective date and expiry or renewal date: [dates / to confirm]
- What must be completed before operating? [list]
- Who will monitor renewals or conditions? [name and reminder date]