A builder has been fined $13,000 for demolishing part of a house in Williamstown’s heritage area without a permit.
The builder was prosecuted in Sunshine Magistrates Court for unlawfully demolishing a section of the house and renovating it in a street covered by a heritage overlay.
Hobsons Bay mayor Sandra Wilson warned there were stiff penalties for those caught trying to bypass proper processes.
“This is a warning for those thinking of doing similar, and a win for the amenity and heritage of the community,” Cr Wilson said.
“If someone fails to obtain the correct building and planning permits before they start work, they should understand there will be consequences.’’
The builder was ordered to pay a fine and costs totalling $13,210.
Earlier this month, two builders were ordered by the council to pay fines and costs of $4000 and $9000 respectively after damaging the roots of two trees on streets in Altona North and Newport.
The builders had breached their planning permits and damaged the roots of a yellow gum and tea tree while working outside new houses.
Cr Wilson said permits governing work around street trees were very clear.
“They state street trees must be protected by proper cyclone wire fences during the period of the work,” she said.
“If roots need to be cut, they must be cut only when supervised by a council arborist.”
The cost of removing and replacing the trees was paid by the builders.
