What approvals do I need? - Sheds

Planning

A planning permit is not required for a shed (out-building) associated with a dwelling on a lot in the General Residential Zone, Township Zone or Mixed Use Zone, unless:

• The lot has an area of less than 300m2; or
• The land is affected by an overlay that may trigger a planning permit for certain buildings and works.

In the case of a lot in the Low Density Residential Zone no planning permit is required for a shed (out-building) associated with a dwelling on a lot, unless the land is affected by an overlay that may trigger a planning permit for certain buildings and works.
If your land is in any other zone or affected by any overlays, a planning permit may be required and certain restrictions or requirements may apply.
If a shed is proposed on a lot without a dwelling, this may be another form of land use such as a store, and such a use may be prohibited by the zone or may not be granted.
If you are unsure or would like to talk to a planner you can call (03) 5662 9200 or please click here to book a time to meet with a Planner.
Please note: where applicable, a planning permit should be obtained prior to submitting a building permit.

Building

A building permit is required for sheds greater than 10m² in floor area. For sheds not more than 10 m² in floor area, a building permit is not required providing the shed is:

• not more than 3 m in height or if within 1 m of a boundary not more than 2.4 m in height; and
• is associated with a building of a different class on the same allotment i.e. dwelling, office building, etc.; and
• is located no further forward on the allotment than the front wall of the associated building; and
• is not constructed of masonry
• Consent of a service authority may be required to construct a building over an easement or within 1m laterally, i.e. water authority, council etc.

If you wish to build a shed on a vacant allotment you must apply for Report and Consent from council to vary building Building Regulation 87 – Siting of Class 10a Buildings. To apply visit Report and Consent.

Wastewater

If a septic tank system could be affected by the building or works and any driveway access then a Report and Consent or Permit to Alter a Wastewater System should be obtained from Council.

Planning

Completed planning permit application form and checklist
Relevant fees (refer to the Planning Fee Schedule)
A current copy of title for the land including, the title plan and a copy of any covenants or 173 agreements on the title (no more than 60 days old).
Three (3) copies of site plan drawn to scale (preferably at 1:100 or 1:200) showing setbacks to the front, side and rear boundaries and the extent of any cut/fill (earthworks).
Three (3) copies of floor plans and elevations drawn to scale (preferably 1:100 or 1:200) showing the dimensions of the building, height of the building from natural ground level, colours and finishes of any building materials. Please note: engineering/structural drawings DO NOT constitute an elevation plan.

Building

Contact a Private Building Surveyor to obtain a building permit.

Wastewater

Submit Report and Consent or Septic Tank Application to Alter with appropriate fee (refer to Wastewater Fee Schedule).

Planning permit application

Planning fees

Siting and design guide

List of private building surveyors

Application for Report & Consent (septic tanks)

Septic Tank Application to Install, Alter or Amend

Wastewater Fee Schedule