Builders & Renovations FAQs
How do I know if I need development approval?
Development Application for building projects on the Gold Coast
Building projects require council approval or they can be approved using private building certifiers. If you are planning a building project whether it is a shed, garage, swimming pool or a house, you might need to check the rules set by the local council before you proceed with your project. In this article, we will discuss the rules prescribed by the Gold Coast City Council for taking development approval, when development approval is required and when it is not.
Do you need development approval for your building project on the Gold Coast?
Building approval is NOT needed where the construction doesn’t affect the structural integrity and safety of your house. If you are carrying out renovation or maintenance work in your building, approval is NOT needed. However, if the building work changes the structure of the building, approval would be required.
Low risk projects do NOT require building approval like:
- Garden shed if it is up to 2.4 metres high
- Fence up to 2 metres high
- Retaining wall upto 1 metre high
- Roofed Patio up to 2.4 metre high
- Deck - 1 metre high and 10 square metres
The Building Regulation 2006 (Schedule 1 and Schedule 2) lists all the projects that do not require approval. You can access the QLD Legislation here - legislation.qld.gov.au .
For all the above projects, check the following resources before going ahead with the development activity.
- City Plan
- Queensland Development Codes
- National Construction Code
- Services
- Property Easements/Covenants
When do you need development approval?
The following require development approval:
- Swimming pool construction and fencing
- Waterfront and corner lots
- Using garage as a living space
- Shipping container kept for more than 30 days on your property
- Living in a caravan
- Tiny house
- Carports and Garages
- Gatehouse construction
- Dwelling house, Secondary Dwelling or Duplex( Dual Occupancy)
Important Note: The list is not exhaustive.
How to check if you need a development approval?
Check the following resources from the Gold Coast City Council website for more information:
Development approval for building projects in Gold Coast
The laws have changed immensely and private building certifiers can help you in obtaining development approval. Our expert team at Symcorp have in-depth knowledge about building approvals and custom house building. We specialise in providing development approvals in the Gold Coast region, renovations , extensions and professional building services.
With us you can be rest assured that your building project will be smooth and tension-free. Save your precious time and money by getting in touch with us. We would love to help! Call us now for a free, no-obligation quote on 07 5594 1768 .