An authorised officer who has accreditation as an Accredited professional—building level 1 or an Accredited professional—building level 2, and who considers that there is a threat to safety because of the condition or use of a building or excavation, or that there is a threat to any State or local heritage place, may make an emergency order [Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016 (SA) s 155, Planning, Development and Infrastructure (General) Regulations 2017 (SA) reg 112(3)].

An emergency order must be given in writing unless the authorised officer considers that urgent action is required, in which case it may be given orally (but must be confirmed in writing by 5 pm on the next business day) and can require the owner to evacuate the building or land, carry out or stop any work.

If the owner does not comply with the emergency order, the council can carry out any necessary work and recover the cost from the owner [ss 155(5)-(6)].

If the owner does not agree with the emergency order they have 14 days to lodge an appeal to the Environment, Resources and Development Court, unless the Court allows an extension of time [s 155(11)].

Similar provisions apply to the issue of a fire safety notice [Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016 (SA) s 157].