Project Information Memorandum (PIM)

A Project Information Memorandum (PIM) is issued by your local council under the Building Act 2004. It sets out everything the council knows that is relevant to your proposed building work on a particular site — including zoning rules, special land features, heritage overlays, natural hazard zones, required infrastructure, and any other matters that could affect your build.

A PIM is particularly valuable when you're buying a property with plans to renovate or build new. It essentially gives you a heads-up on what the council will expect before you invest in detailed architectural plans. For example, a PIM might reveal that your site sits in a flood management area requiring a minimum floor level, or that a designation runs across the property for a future road.

While a PIM is not mandatory, it's strongly recommended before lodging a building consent. It can save you significant time and money by identifying issues early. Most councils process PIMs within 20 working days, and fees typically range from $300 to $600.

Note that a PIM is different from a LIM. A LIM covers what the council knows about the property in general, while a PIM is specific to a proposed building project and focuses on what you need to know before designing and consenting your build.

If you're buying a property with plans to build, extend, or significantly renovate, a PIM can reveal whether your plans are feasible before you commit. It may uncover setback requirements, height restrictions, or infrastructure obligations that make your project more expensive — or even impractical.

While buyers more commonly rely on a LIM during the purchase process, requesting a PIM (or making your offer conditional on a satisfactory PIM) is smart if your purchase decision hinges on being able to do specific building work on the site.

Apply for a PIM through your local council, providing details of the site and your proposed building work. Most councils offer online application forms. You can also ask your architect or designer to apply on your behalf.

The council must issue the PIM within 20 working days. Fees vary by council but typically range from $300 to $600.